The Horizon conference, supported by Acorn Recovery Projects, brought together colleagues, partners and people with lived experience in Blackpool.
Throughout the event, which took place at Blackpool Football Club’s Bloomfield Road, speakers and contributors included health care workers, councillors and those who have benefited from Acorn’s recovery services.
Dr Arif Rajpura, Director of Public Health for Blackpool, kicked off proceedings by outlining the ongoing challenges around alcohol use in the town. He also acknowledged the work already underway across local services, emphasising that progress comes from collaboration and consistent, compassionate support.
Speakers from Horizon, Acorn and partner organisations followed, sharing frontline insight and examples of what is making a real difference for people seeking help. Several individuals with lived experience spoke about their own journeys, offering honest reflections that resonated strongly with the room.
In the afternoon, keyworkers discussed their work in harm reduction, psychosocial support and community‑based recovery. Partner agencies explored how housing, mental health and other services intersect with alcohol use, highlighting the need for joined‑up approaches. Once again, lived‑experience speakers grounded the discussions in the reality of day‑to‑day recovery.
As well as multiple networking opportunities for delegates, a wide range of stalls were available throughout the day, offering everything from clinical checks and detox options to community recovery groups, peer support and volunteering opportunities.
Recovery Practitioner Duncan Swan, who was behind the event, spoke of his pride, saying: “The idea for the conference came from a frustration that the narrative around Blackpool and addiction has become overwhelmingly negative. We all recognise the challenges our community faces — but we also know something that often goes unnoticed.
“The dedication of the people behind the scenes, the innovation within our services, and the compassion that drives our work with some of the most vulnerable individuals in the area.
“I wanted to bring together all the agencies we collaborate with daily, creating an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic work happening here at The Lighthouse and to strengthen the partnerships that support our clients.
“I’m incredibly proud of the event. It exceeded every expectation and became a true team effort, with keyworkers and ex‑clients stepping out of their comfort zones to deliver heartfelt, courageous speeches.”
The day ended with thanks to everyone involved and a shared message that recovery in Blackpool is strong, connected and full of hope.
