Forward Leeds was delighted to welcome members of the public, professionals, and partners into their services this month as part of their Open House events celebrating 10 years of Forward Leeds
Held at their hubs in Armley, Seacroft, and Kirkgate, the events gave people a chance to see first-hand the work Forward Leeds does to support individuals and families affected by alcohol and drug use in Leeds. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the openness, professionalism, and compassion of the service’s teams.
Each Open House event offered guided tours of the buildings, sessions with staff, talks from management and testimonies from people who had been supported by the service. It was an opportunity for the service to showcase the person-centred and trauma-informed support they provide and to strengthen the partnerships that help make the work possible.
Forward Leeds Director of Service Helen Cook said: “We know that recovery is a community effort, and these events helped break down barriers and build understanding. Visitors were able to see that Forward Leeds is a welcoming place where lives are changed every day.”
“I want to thank all the staff who volunteered to work across the three evenings. Without their enthusiasm, hard work and dedication, the evenings would not have been the huge success that they were”.
Visitors included local councillors, NHS professionals, charity partners, and residents keen to learn more about our service. Many commented on the welcoming atmosphere and the real sense of hope they encountered during their visit.
The success of these Open House events has encouraged Forward Leeds to look at making them a regular feature, giving even more people the chance to learn, ask questions, and see how the service works.
Forward Leeds would like to thank everyone who attended and supported the events.