A new space of reflection and remembrance has been created at 5 WAYS, offering people a place to honour those lost to alcohol and drugs.
The idea for the tree came from 5 WAYS Recovery Coach Seamus Burke who helps to run the Dayhab programme at 5 WAYS. He wanted to create a space where people could remember those lost along the way, whether in their journey to recovery or more widely in life.
Seamus Burke said: “It is fantastic to have a place to go to remember those we have lost as a consequence of addiction. Having a focal point to visit is a welcome gift.”
At the heart of the new Remembrance Space is an olive tree planted on the 5 WAYS roof terrace. The tree serves as a living symbol of peace, strength and connection — qualities that underpin the recovery community.
Ragan Montgomery, Managing Partner and Harriet Thornton, Head of Real Estate, at LCF Law, have also been strong supporters of the cause. A financial donation from LCF Law funded the renovation of the decking at 5 WAYS, helping to create a brighter, more welcoming space for the Remembrance Garden. Both Harriet and Ragan have spoken of their belief in the importance of supporting recovery in Leeds.
Garden Recovery, a volunteer-led gardening project, also played a key role in the transformation. Volunteers worked alongside Tom from TCV Hollybush to build a handmade planter for the olive tree, using paint donated by Seagulls Paint and reclaimed wood from Leeds Wood Recycling.
The planter carries a walnut wood inscription and sits beside a space where visitors can write or paint memory tokens or tie ribbons in remembrance of loved ones.
Shaun, a volunteer at 5 WAYS, also spoke at the event, while Jem, another volunteer, shared poetry he had written especially for the occasion. This new space offers a quiet reminder that recovery is about connection, reflection and community. The olive tree will continue to grow as a symbol of strength and peace for everyone who visits 5 WAYS.
The blessing was led by Reverend Hannah Jones, Curate at St George’s Church, who joined us to dedicate the olive tree as a symbol of remembrance and hope. Yellow cupcakes baked by Nazia Latif from the Forward Leeds Young Person’s team added a touch of warmth to the gathering.
