Recovery is possible. It’s achievable, and it’s happening every day across Derbyshire.
This winter, we’re shining a light on real stories from people who have taken steps towards recovery through our local projects. These stories show that recovery looks different for everyone—but with the right support, hope and change are always possible. This story was first shared anonymously, but JoJo has chosen to step forward and celebrate their success, proud of the person they’ve become.
For years, JoJo was the life of the party — a big social drinker with an impressively high tolerance. But what began as a fun, social pastime gradually became a dangerous coping mechanism. As the pressures of running their own business mounted, they turned to alcohol for relief, and the habit soon spiralled out of control.
By last year, they were secretly drinking nearly two litres of spirits a day. Bottles were hidden around the house. “I thought I had it under control,” she recalls, “but everything was falling apart.” The consequences were devastating: they lost their business, their partner, and even their teeth. “I hit a point where I realised my whole life had crumbled,” she says. “I had to do something. I couldn’t keep living like this.”
Recognising the addiction as more than just physical, they sought help and went to The Farm in Goyt Valley, run by Charis House — a peaceful rehab centre known for its healing environment. There, they worked outdoors planting vegetables, explored recovery courses, and took part in deep therapeutic work to understand the roots of their addiction.
Over time, JoJo began volunteering in the local community, surrounding themselves with people who understood their journey. She embraced the support of AA meetings, sober socials, and recovery meet-ups — even taking part in the Zink Recovery dragon boat race.
As part of their next steps, JoJo joined Zink’s RISE to Work scheme, taking on a micro job that became a turning point in their recovery. “It gave me structure again,” they say. “But more than that, it let me ease back into a working environment without pressure.” The role helped them build confidence, re-learn workplace routines, and manage the transition back to employment in a gradual, supported way. Her dedication paid off — they’re now in a permanent position, a major milestone that marks how she has come.
Now seven months clean, they are thriving. JoJo is on the verge of moving into their very first home, and after six months of dental recovery, she can finally smile again — with confidence and brand-new pearly whites. “I used to cover my mouth when I talked. Now I don’t feel like I have to hide anymore.”
For JoJo, the most powerful change has been internal. “I feel positive about life again,” they share. “I’m not isolated. I’ve got people around me, and I know how to reach out when things get tough. My self-esteem’s coming back.”
She now want to use their experience to help others. “Whatever kind of addiction you’re dealing with, the first step is recognising it and being honest with yourself. Once I did that, everything started to change.”
JoJo’s message to others struggling in silence? You’re not alone. Things can get better. I’m living proof of that.
Check out the video of JoJo singing a song from Evita on the steps at Zink during one of their Sober Socials below:
The RISE project supports people in recovery into jobs, education or training.
Their qualified work coaches will help you identify what sort of work you want then take the necessary steps to get you there. It’s all at your own pace and meetings can take place local to you. There’s even the opportunity of a paid micro job to get you started.
Zink HQ is in Buxton and offer outreach in Glossop, New Mills and Bamford. To access Zink, get in touch with Paul or Jane: Paul@zink.org.uk, jane@zink.org.uk or telephone Zink HQ on 01298 – 214926
