Some weeks ago, I asked five people from different from different disciplines if they would write a testimonial about North Wales Recovery Communities (NWRC). Each of these individuals has worked in the addiction recovery field in some way or other, and has followed the work of NWRC over the years. So here goes, the views of a filmmaker, academic, clinical psychologist, former practitioner in the addiction field, and a former senior policeman.
‘Over the past ten years, Eternal Media has loved working alongside North Wales Recovery Communities, capturing the powerful stories of people at Penrhyn, for our films and podcasts, on 100-mile walks, and during their inspiring recovery expedition. From outward bounds activities to Recovery In Focus sessions, it’s been a joy to witness and document the heart, courage, and transformation of the members within this community.
NWRC is a shining example of recovery in action, and we’re honoured to have been part of their journey. We’ve made so many friends over the years and it’s been a joy to watch them flourish. On a personal note, I find any excuse to be at Penrhyn, it feels like family when I’m there. NWRC embodies what the transition from addiction to recovery should look like, and I wish they existed when I was finally getting clean. Love you all and Happy 10th Birthday from us all at Eternal.’ Marcus Fair, Founder of Eternal Media
‘The spirit and genius of NWRC is how it is embedded in community. Other residential recovery organisations are beginning to do this in greater numbers, but NWRC was one of the first to make the boundaries between ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ porous. This enabled it to link productively with a range of fellowships and other diverse and integrative recovery philosophies and pathways, as well as developing authentic links with marginalised communities across North Wales. It nurtures generic principles of recovery, rather than imposing a particular dogma or ideology, and supports people who are serious about developing their own individual blend of recovery practices and wish to contribute productively to the community. In this way, it has become a politically pre-figurative organisation, embodying pro-social values of flourishing that would benefit society as a whole. NWRC is a beacon of hope across North Wales and beyond.’ Wendy Dossett, Emeritus Professor of Religious Studies at University of Chester
‘I was involved with NWRC right at their conception. James and Sarah supported our work on the development and creation of MOIMR in late 2014 and 2015. They were incredibly enthusiastic and generous with their knowledge and experience. Over the past decade, they have maintained this generous attitude and have increased their support. NWRC embodies loyalty and dependability. They are encouraging and yet realistic, empathic and direct, and have a can-do attitude to challenges.’ Dr Lee Hogan PhD, DClinPsy
‘I first met James at a Moving On Focus Group in Caernarfon I was immediately struck by both his energy and at the same time his disenchantment with the status quo. We both shared a belief in doing with rather than doing to and so when he outlined his vision for NWRC I was immediately on board. The impact of the NWRC philosophy of mutual aid and support together with being active both individually and as a community had an immediate impact. I remember seeing how Moving In flourished in the house and became an integral part of the programme. I saw lives transformed and enriched and this was wonderfully documented in the films Marcus and his team at Eternal Media made. In this 10th anniversary year I wish NWRC every success for the future.’ Kevin Fisher, Chief Executive at Helping Groups To Grow
‘My first visit to North Wales Recovery Communities (NWRC) was in early 2015. I was impressed by the scale of the vision and ambition that James and the team had. The buildings were in a poor state of repair and most of the garden was overgrown and untended. Despite these challenges, and a very limited budget, James and the team were convinced that they could build a thriving community that would support those in recovery and enable them to rebuild their lives.
On that visit, I remember meeting Alan. He was in the early days of his recovery from drug addiction. In his early discussions with the team at NWRC, Alan had mentioned that he had an interest in nature. So, the NWRC team found some land to rent and bought bees and hives for him to look after. This gave Alan a sense of purpose, and he felt valued at being given the responsibility of looking after the bees. For the first time in many years, he was enjoying life and he was optimistic about his future. Alan’s story is not unique.
Alan shared his story, and his love of beekeeping, in the film ‘Flipped It’. The success of that film led to the creation of Eternal Media. Over the last 10 years, Eternal Media and NWRC have worked closely together on many projects.
Ten years ago, James and the NWRC team had an ambitious vision. Since then, they have turned that vision into a reality for many, many people. Long may they continue. Congratulations NWRC on your 10th anniversary and best wishes for the future.’ Simon Shaw, Former Assistant Chief Constable, North Wales Police