You’re probably reading this article on a laptop or mobile device. We use technology routinely across most areas of our lives now. But for many people, technology can be a barrier to the wider community, as well as a welcome lifeline.

Over 100 awards were given to participants in a graduation ceremony at the end of February for qualifications, training and personal development programmes completed by individuals in recovery from drug or alcohol misuse.

We all need an advocate at some times in our lives. It helps to have someone around to make a difficult phone call, someone who can help write a letter or someone to go with you to a difficult meeting.