Meet the projects
Supported by the Essex Recovery Fund and voted for by you
“Haircuts for Recovery” by Open Road South
Developed through Open Road’s Feedback Forum, where clients shape the support they receive, this initiative addresses a simple yet profound need: access to affordable haircuts. For someone in recovery, a haircut isn’t just grooming—it’s a fresh start. It can symbolise renewal, restore confidence, and inspire hope for what’s ahead.
“Artful Conversations” by Gretel Warner
Gretel Warner is passionate about sharing the power and positive effect that art can have on the world. “Artful Conversations” will be over the course of five months, with two sessions per month, aiming to provide a safe, fluid, fun and inclusive space to learn the fundamentals of art, explore your inner creativity and expression.
“Message in a Bottle” by SPIT Theatre
“Message in a Bottle” is a theatre project which will develop an original play about alcoholism and recovery, aiming to raise awareness of addiction and support the recovery community through the transformative nature of poetry and theatre. Led by Artistic Director Harry Bailey and associate artist Lola Jones, both with personal experience of the effects of alcoholism, this project centres lived experience at every stage.
“Feeling Freedom” by Jacky Power
Feeling Freedom is a user-friendly app designed specifically for families affected by addiction, featuring weekly 90-minute guided sessions, an extensive resource library, and 24/7 peer support. Members can access psychoeducation, emotional regulation techniques, and EFT tapping exercises whenever needed, ensuring support isn't limited to scheduled sessions.
“Empowerment through Recovery” by Boys & Men
Empowerment Through Recovery is a new initiative designed to run for 12-months, seeking to support Black minority men in their recovery from substance misuse addiction, mental health issues, or trauma. The initiative offers culturally tailored recovery services through workshops, peer mentoring, and group sessions, focusing on emotional resilience and life skills.
“12 Week Self Care” by Blossome
Blossome’s project in Walton-on-the-Naze supports adults impacted by a loved one’s addiction. Through weekly group sessions led by self-care specialists, participants explore physical, emotional and social self-care in safe, supportive settings (studio, nature, beach). Each member receives a workbook, self-care toolbox, and access to an online hub. The programme aims to reduce isolation, build confidence, and improve wellbeing through connection, compassion, and practical tools.
“Active Recovery” by Jess
Active Recovery is a 10-week programme designed for individuals transitioning out of rehab or already in recovery. The project combines structured gym workouts and Fight Club-style bag work for participants to experience the positive endorphins which exercise brings. With 20 total sessions (10 gym and 10 Fight Club) Active Recovery empowers individuals to build healthier routines and connections in their ongoing recovery journey.
“Rainbow Recovery Cafe” by Adam
Rainbow Recovery Café is a weekly safe space for members of the LGBT community and their allies, addressing the unique challenges they face around addiction. Held at Harlow Playhouse every Wednesday from 12:30–13:30 (with plans to expand to other spaces in the future), the café provides a supportive environment for conversation, peer connection, and targeted signposting. The project aims to build a stronger, more connected LGBT recovery community in Essex.