Staff, volunteers, and people in recovery joined together throughout September to mark Recovery Month by taking part in four parkruns across Leeds.
The initiative was designed show that recovery from issues with alcohol and drugs is not only possible but something to be celebrated. The service also wanted to raise awareness of the service so that people know where to turn if they need support. Participants also hoped to raise funds for the service’s aftercare service 5 WAYS along the way.
Over the four weekends, Forward Leeds teams joined regular parkrunners at four locations across the city: Woodhouse Moor, Roundhay Park, Armley Park and Temple Newsam. Among them were staff members, people they have supported and volunteers, running jogging, or walking side by side.
They were joined by colleagues from Recovery Runners, a local community group initially set up to support people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, but that now welcomes anyone who wants to socialise or train in a non-judgmental environment.
For many, the runs were about more than exercise. They offered a chance to connect with others, to show the value of recovery, and to take positive steps as part of a community that might not necessarily be as aware of issues around addiction and recovery.
Forward Leeds Recovery Coordinator Richard Sellman, who had the idea for the recovery parkruns said: “Recovery Month is about challenging stigma and showing that positive change is achievable. These parkruns have been a fantastic way to do that. It’s visible, uplifting, and open to everyone.
“I think the photos capture both the effort and the joy of taking part, as well as the sense of connection of those who took part”.
If you would like to donate to 5 WAYS you can visit the parkrunners Giving Gain page.
