Active Choices recently hosted a Health and Wellbeing Day to celebrate the progress of its participants on their recovery journey from substance misuse for the DCCT Recovery Month Event!
The day provided an opportunity for rest, reflection, and refocusing, encouraging participants to reassess their priorities for the year ahead. It was also a chance to highlight the reality of substance misuse while showing that recovery is possible. By recognising the achievements of people in recovery, the event aimed to inspire hope in others who may still be struggling with addiction.
One participant said:
“I’ve really enjoyed being part of this event. Today has given me the chance to strengthen connections and build solidarity with others who’ve faced similar challenges. The mix of fun and relaxation I experienced today would have been unthinkable just a few months ago while I was still using. In active addiction, we lose all connection, we forget what it’s like to have fun or feel joy.
Thank you, Active Choices, for a great day.”
Adam Rowley, Team Leader added:
Recovery Month gives us all the chance to raise awareness of treatment options, recovery services, and community resources. It encourages people to seek support earlier and without shame. Sharing recovery stories and celebrating the achievements of our participants helps challenge stigma and break down stereotypes about addiction. By highlighting what our participants have shared, we hope to promote compassion and understanding instead of judgment.
Derbyshire has tremendous support in place for prevention, treatment, and recovery and long may it continue.
Active Choices, run by Derby County Community Trust, supports people in recovery from substance misuse through physical activity, routine, and positive lifestyle changes. The programme offers gym sessions (including female-only), Boxfit, and wellbeing groups, while also helping participants access volunteering, employment, training, and qualifications. Delivered in partnership with local treatment centres and housing providers, referrals are accepted when individuals are ready to engage. Participants benefit from a strong recovery network and opportunities to take part in celebration events and mentoring. The service is available across Derbyshire, including Amber Valley and Erewash.
📞 Refer by phone: 07479 687907
📧 Refer by email: charlie.poole@dcct.co.uk
Community-based project with no fixed base — please contact to discuss attending.
