Introducing Simon…  

Simon is a participant of our Active Choices programme, which he now volunteers within. He is approaching three years of being sober from drugs and alcohol and describes the transition as the "best thing I have ever done."

Active Choices is a programme designed to support individuals with implementing structure, routine and positive lifestyle change by becoming more active as they recover from substance misuse. The programme has supported over 2,000 participants since its inception in 2012.

Simon first came to Derby to attend rehab with just two bags of belongings, describing himself at the time of "losing everything". He recalls the strained family relationships caused by drug and alcohol abuse.

Alcohol Awareness Week is a national campaign aimed at encouraging conversations around alcohol use, it's risks and the support that is available. On how important it is, Simon said:

"It [alcohol] has affected me on a personal level, very deeply. My life was in ruins and I branched out for support and my life is now back on track. I am doing things that I never thought I would do. It affects a lot of people themselves and their families. Raising awareness around alcohol and what help is available is imperative."

In 2023, there were reportedly 8,274 alcohol-specific deaths within the UK. This information is available through the GOV UK website and states that 2023 was he highest rate since the start of the data series in 2006.

For most people addicted to alcohol, seeking support is often the hardest part. For Simon, he recognised that he needed to take hold of his life, saying: "Something had to change otherwise it would have carried on downhill to an early death. It is very personal to me, and I can honestly say there is a way out, there is hope. It just takes perseverance and effort."

Before addiction, Simon enjoyed sports and described it as one of his passions. Active Choices allowed him to rediscover this and "reignite a passion in him and set him alight." Not only has he enjoyed participating, but he has also gained skills to begin regularly volunteering on the programme. He said, "Seeing people volunteering for the programme, encouraging me to do the same. I thought, if they can do it, if they can get sober and stay sober and be part of the community, then that's something I can do. I followed in the footsteps that had gone before me."

Working in partnership with local organisations including drug and alcohol rehabilitation and treatment centres, supported living providers, hostels, along with the local authority in Derby City and wider Derbyshire, Active Choices accept referrals on to the programme when individuals are ready to commit to their abstinence.

For more information, visit - https://www.derbycountycommunitytrust.com/programmes/health/active-choices or contact our Health Team Leader, Adam Rowley - [email protected]