Can you tell us about your story before Change Grow Live?
I was using heroin and crack, IV. I got to a point in my life when I was spiritually and emotionally bankrupt, I lost all self-respect and worth, and I was completely powerless over my addiction. My addiction affected me in every way possible. I contracted Hep C, nearly had my leg amputated, and I have DVTs (deep vein thrombosis). Mentally, I lost the will to live and developed deep-rooted depression. During my addiction, I felt like a social outcast and had given up on life. Totally demoralized in every sense.
I was referred to the Change Grow Live Homeless and Rough Sleeper team by the staff at my hostel in the City Centre. I was scripted the next day; this rapid prescribing stopped me from shoplifting to fund my habit and enabled me to consider my recovery options.
Can you tell us about the support you received from Change Grow Live?
I was met with respect and compassion, my Change Grow Live keyworker, Matt showed me a genuine interest in myself and my situation.
I felt like my keyworker listened to me and my immediate issues would be addressed. My first meeting inspired me and showed me there was a way out of my situation if I was prepared to work. I felt positive and excited.
The one-to-one key working sessions really benefited me, they gave me a positive relationship with my worker and inspired me, and gave me the belief that I could make the changes to become a better member of society and address my addiction.
The Housing support from Change Grow Live really helped me and got me out of the hostel environment, which enabled me to focus on my recovery and see what was possible.
When I was at my lowest and I knew that I didn’t want to live, but that I didn’t want to die either. The encouragement and support from my Change Grow Live Keyworker to attend Mutual Aid Groups, enabled me to start building a positive support network in recovery.
Can you tell us about your current recovery journey?
The option for detox/rehab offered by Change Grow Live was life-changing and I am clean from all substances and Methadone.
I stayed in a residential treatment centre and for the first time in many years I had hope, belief, gratitude, and faith. I completed my detox, and I became abstinent for the first time in 14 years. I was nominated as the peer of the week for attending all groups despite being ill from detox and adjusting. We had workshops, peer lead groups, treatment step work, and one-to-one counselling with workers.
The support has allowed me to start rebuilding my life and help me gain my self-respect and to feel optimistic. I still look forward to leading a bright, positive future being a better father /son/ brother, and living life on life’s terms.
What advice would you give to people starting their recovery journey?
Be honest as you can, recovery isn’t an easy option but if put the work in, it is worth it. I would suggest getting into Narcotics Anonymous or Mutual Aid Groups.
I have so much gratitude for Change Grow Live, without them, my parents would be burying their son. I could not be happier with the service provided to me.”
We would like to thank Stuart for sharing their story and wish them all the best with their next steps.
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