This awesome six-minute film from 2017 brings a tear or two to my eyes when I watch it. David Higham had been in and out of prison since the age of 16 and was a drug user for more than 25 years. He went on to create (in 2012) and develop The Well Communities, an inspiring recovery community located in Cumbria and North Lancashire.
‘The Well is a vibrant community of people. Together, we support each other and we believe wholeheartedly that recovery is possible for anyone. By valuing and investing in the people who use our services, we’re able to show a different side to addiction. A side which sees members start their lives afresh with new friends, stronger family links and better prospects.’
Here is The Well’s approach, taken from their 2022 Progress Report.
‘We’ve learned that successful recovery can only be achieved if we create the right environment for people to heal. We’ve developed six Core Conditions which we believe are vital for long-term recovery. These conditions underpin everything we do. Staff and volunteers across the organisation are trained to put this approach into practise on a daily basis.
1. Lived Experience: We believe that the visible recovery of one person acts as a powerful motivator for others. When people see recovery they want it for themselves, and that’s why companions are so important. All of our staff and volunteers have lived experience.
2. Connection: Many people in addiction feel disconnected from themselves, their family and society. We work to re-build those broken connections so that people feel loved, valued and able to make a positive contribution to their community.
3. Meaning and Purpose: Having a strong sense of purpose improves every area of our lives, from relationships to work and family. Without it, we’re lost – and that’s how most of our members are when they come to us. We show people that they don’t have to accept their fate; they can achieve so much more.
4. Community: Unlike many traditional recovery services, support is available for as long as a person needs it. This means our members are able to build long-lasting relationships with each other and feel part of a vibrant community.
5. Trauma-Safe Environment: We know that trauma can lead to addiction. For people to be open and honest about their experiences we create a safe, non-judgemental environment where members and staff have complete trust in each other.
6. Hope: Without hope, change can’t happen. Our staff act as role models who’ve had the same experiences as our members. So we become their hope – a real and tangible example of what recovery looks like.’
Please explore The Well Communities website, including the section about David. A true recovery carrier. Well done to all at The Well.