At this year’s Scottish Health Awards in November the Glasgow Recovery Communities Team won the Healthier Lifestyle Award.  

Glasgow Recovery Communities provide valuable support to people post treatment and care for drug and alcohol misuse. A team of 100 dedicated volunteers, with real-life experience, provide a safe and therapeutic environment where people are supported to leave core services, maintain abstinence and develop new skills setting them on a path to success and independence.

New premises and partnership working has enabled the expansion of cafés and initiatives, now running day and evening throughout the city, seven days a week. This provides a varied programme for people in recovery and for children and family members who have been affected by drug and alcohol misuse. 

Glasgow Recovery Communities are breaking the cycle of addiction in families and improving the lives of children. They are reducing the numbers of people relapsing and ultimately reducing the numbers reverting to criminal activity. Alcohol-free events and activities across the city reduce social isolation, stress and loneliness giving hope and optimism for the future. 

Working alongside care and treatment and prevention and education services from the Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP), Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership, dedicated volunteers are breaking the stigma and promoting that people can recover and be valuable members of their communities, advocating ‘recovery is possible’.

Carole Meakin, Glasgow Alcohol and Drug Recovery Service (Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership) said: “The volunteers are dedicated to helping others sustain recovery. The work they do is incredible, not only supporting individuals but their families and their children as well. Winning the award is recognition of their commitment and enthusiasm, making Glasgow a healthier, safer place to be.”