Forward Leeds Celebrates Recovery at 2026 Graduation

Almost 100 people rebuilding their lives were honoured at Elland Road as Forward Leeds celebrated their recovery.

Forward Leeds held its annual Recovery Graduation on Tuesday 29 September. The ceremony recognises people who have achieved lasting recovery from alcohol and/or drug use. Family members, supporters and community leaders joined graduates to celebrate their determination, resilience and success.

Cllr Stephen Holroyd, the Lord Mayor of Leeds, attended the event and praised the graduates for their achievement and their contribution to the city.

The Lord Mayor said: “It is a privilege to join Forward Leeds in celebrating these remarkable people. Their stories demonstrate extraordinary resilience and show what can be achieved when people are given the right support and opportunities. Recovery strengthens not only individuals and families but also our communities, and Leeds should be proud of everyone being recognised here this evening.”

Forward Leeds Service Director Helen Cook said: “Recovery Graduation is one of the most important events in our calendar because it puts these people where they belong, on a stage and at the centre of the celebration.

“Every certificate presented tonight represents determination, courage and an incredible commitment to change. We are immensely proud of everyone graduating and grateful to the families, peers, volunteers and staff who have supported them on their journeys. Recovery changes lives, and tonight we celebrate people who prove that every day.”

As well as the Lord Mayor of Leeds, special guests included Sean O’Hagan trainer of multiple world boxing champions, including his son Josh Warrington. They joined Forward Leeds staff in presenting certificates and congratulating graduates on their achievements.

Throughout the evening, some of the graduates shared powerful personal stories of overcoming adversity and creating positive futures for themselves, their families and their communities.

The annual ceremony, held during Recovery Month, shines a spotlight on the reality that recovery is possible and worthy of recognition. It also highlights the role that support services, peer networks, families and friends play in helping people sustain recovery and thrive.

The graduates on the night represent only a fraction of the people who leave the service having achieved their personal goals. The annual Recovery Graduation continues to be a significant moment for Forward Leeds. It offers a public celebration of achievement while challenging stigma and demonstrating that recovery from alcohol and drug dependency is not only possible but something to be proud of.

Held at Elland Road’s Leeds Lounge, the 2026 ceremony once again highlighted the strength of Leeds’ recovery community and reinforced Forward Leeds’ commitment to helping people build healthier, happier and more fulfilling futures.