This time three years ago, Becky didn’t even know treatment and recovery services existed in Blackburn with Darwen. However, after being referred by a friend, her journey from being a Spark service user to Red Rose Recovery employee began.
After a concerned friend told her about the alcohol services provided by Spark, Becky began joining weekly support groups to control her drinking.
Becky explained: “I only found out by someone who was concerned. I’m so thankful that they did. At first, I wanted to control my drinking and I was attending weekly groups. The support was amazing, and I truly am thankful for it”.
However, the 30-year-old realised that controlled drinking wasn’t working for her. So, in January 2022, she made the step to fully remove alcohol from her life.
Using content shared in groups and the ongoing support of her key worker, facilitators and other staff members, she became abstinent.
However, like many in recovery will know, the journey isn’t easy. Last year, Becky began to struggle again, especially with her mental health. To overcome this, she confided in Andy and Mel and asked for support.
Thanks to this help, Becky was able to gain the confidence, knowledge and self-worth needed to continue her recovery journey.
“Both of them went above and beyond and helped me get the support I needed”, she added.
Giving back to the service who helped her
After completing groups and graduating from our services, Becky wanted to help others and provide the support they deserve. That’s when she became a volunteer.
Through this position, she was able to support others and become a part of their recovery journeys. During her time as a volunteer, she completed combination learning courses and used the skills she’s learned to help service users even more.
Becky continued: “This has helped me to now gain employment within a recovery setting and move forward on my journey. Spark has given me so much and words cannot explain how thankful I am”.
New beginnings with Red Rose Recovery
Her dedication to volunteering didn’t go unnoticed and she soon secured a permanent position at Red Rose Recovery – part of the recovery collaborative. As a Community Engager, she helps people with substance misuse issues through the ‘New You’ project.
Since starting in July, Becky said: “It’s been amazing so far – my team is great, they’re all really supportive”.
She continued: “I was sad to leave Spark, they’ve been part of my journey for the last three years. It was emotional leaving; I cried a few times – they’re all amazing and have helped me so much”.
Find out more about volunteering at Spark, or learn more about our services by visiting our website.