Our Stories
From the beginning, storytelling has been at the heart of our work. We tell the real stories of real people, unapologetically and unashamedly. These narratives break down barriers, reduce stigma, and inspire understanding. Storytelling isn't just part of our history; it's a way to give hope.
Stories
Finding personal growth through volunteering
BS is a 38-year-old volunteer who brings real lived-experience to his role at ROADS. Having overcome his own challenges with…
Being there for your loved one - and for others
VW is a 46-year-old woman who brings both professional and personal experience to her volunteering role at ROADS. Having supported…
Rebuilding confidence, one step at a time
LW is 31 years old and brings lived experience of challenges with alcohol to her volunteering at ROADS. Now over…
Recovery is possible, and powerful
DF is a 63-year-old volunteer at ROADS. He spent over 20 years facing challenges with alcohol and drug use, but…
Billy's story
I used party drugs for about 20 years. Ecstasy, ketamine, MDMA, cocaine... I just partied my way through life. I…
Building connection: Penny and Scott
His story goes to show that there is always hope and, with the right support, everyone can recover. Penny, Team…
Finding community with our Armed Forces Programme: Graham
The only way that I could get on top of it was to have a drink – I stopped drinking…
Sculpting strength: Using art to enhance recovery
I know that without Recast, I probably wouldn’t be here today. Tracy, Stoke-on-Trent Tracy's story Where did it all start?…
Breaking the cycle and unlocking potential
The IPS team has helped me break the cycle. Dylan, 45, Cornwall Dylan's story Where did it all start? “I…
How we helped Louise to find her smile again
Before, I couldn't see life, it was all dark. Now it's amazing. I can see how bright the world is.…
The power of knowing you're not alone
Drink first, myself second - everyone else came last. Phil, Darlington Phil's story Where did it all start? “When I…
Taking it step by step to reach your goal
Recovery isn’t just about stopping, it’s also about what comes after stopping. Steven, 42, Grantham Steven's story Where did it…
Reclaiming life at Greenslate Community Farm
I can’t explain it but I know that it’s the farm that’s changed me. Susan, Wigan & Leigh Susan's story…
Empowering our young people: Finding purpose and giving back
When I look back at how I am now compared to where I was, I feel I’m the person…
Recovering an old self, discovering new passions
It took ‘me’ away. I have recovered my old self. That's what I see recovery as - recovering yourself. …
Find out more about our original story, Mollie's initial plea — a powerful lived experience that sparked a movement.