Residential rehab clients from Acorn Recovery Projects have been enjoying building their confidence in weekly Focus & Fly sessions at Bank Parade.
Funded by the Christal Foundation, part of the Community Foundation for Lancashire, the course uses a combination of lively activity and discussion-based workshops. It aims to support the group to get into education, training and employment within a fun, safe and non-judgemental environment.
Laura, who took part in the workshops during her stay at Bank Parade, said: “I enjoyed the way it brightened our day and brought us all together. I will take it with me forever”.
She continued: “It has been a big part of my recovery journey. There should be more funding so Focus & Fly can be available to my people in my situation”.
The sessions had such an impact on Laura, that she’d love to go on to be a volunteer in future with them too.
In fact, it isn’t just Laura who is inspired. The workshops have had a massively positive impact on everyone involved. Clients shared aspirations from wanting to keep sober to volunteering at different organisations and even aiming to study at university or college.
Meanwhile, another client – Rebecca – enjoyed the games and quizzes. She shared that the sessions taught her “self-worth and value” and that she wants to go on to study her Level 2 in Counselling.
Focus & Fly CIC was launched in 2013 by two qualified and experienced trainers, Steve and Tracey.
Steve’s “energy” was a highlight for client Tom. He said: “The sessions were really nice to have on a Wednesday to keep mood’s positive midweek. I learnt a lot and Steve is brilliant to talk to”.
The Focus & Fly courses benefit anyone who feels they need to build their confidence, increase self-awareness and esteem or connect to others – and for people venturing into recovery, it is designed to help make the path ahead less daunting.
Sean Horan, a counsellor at Acorn Recovery Projects, added: “Everyone taking part in the sessions has really benefitted and enjoyed the experience”.
He continued: “As individuals, it’s helped them build their confidence and self-esteem and as a group, it’s helped them get to know each other better and have fun together – it’s been great to see”.
Strengthening self-esteem is vital during recovery from addiction, as high self-esteem is associated with an improved ability to tolerate stressful situations – and to do so without using substances.
Bex, who successfully completed the 10-week course, shared: “This has meant the world for me for my future hopes and aspirations. Steve has been such a good help, and groups have been full of laughs and good ideas to help me in my future life in recovery”.
To find out more about Focus & Fly CIC, please visit focusandfly.org or for more information on Acorn Recovery Projects, visit acornrecovery.org.uk
