A new book club for people in treatment at Forward Leeds, has been launched with Waterstones in the city.
The “Read4Recovery” book club came from an idea from clients Forward Leeds clients who were keen to find activities to absorb and entertain them away from alcohol and/or drugs. Waterstones Leeds were happy to immediately offer their support.
Gemma Patterson, Recovery Coordinator at Forward Leeds said: “Books offer a new world, escapism, distraction and a positive way to spend time. Books may be something the public take for granted but it can be a game changer for people with addiction. It gives people something other than drugs to focus on, which is vital in building up social connections and improving interactions.
Gemma continued: “The Forward Leeds book club offers people an insight into how being connected to others in a positive light can give them the motivation and strength to fight an addiction”.
Ged Rumfitt manager of Waterstones Leeds said: “We are delighted to be working with Forward Leeds on this. Reading for pleasure is an amazing form of entertainment. The enjoyment and the benefits you can get from a great book cannot be underestimated and there is such a huge choice to pick from.”
The Read4Recovery book club meets weekly and initially Waterstones will provide books along with suitable book suggestions. The plan is for the club to quickly become self-sufficient while continuing to partner with Waterstones on ideas and recommendations.