A Safe Place to Begin Recovery

By Katy O’Regan

What started as a simple idea between two friends has grown into a vital support network for people in recovery and those seeking support across Crewe.

Liz and her friend Sue run the Recovery Hub at St Andrew’s Church Hall on Bedford Street, offering a welcoming, judgement-free space for people who have problematic relationships with substances or addictive behaviours, as well as those already in recovery.

The hub first began in 2020, but like many community projects, the Covid pandemic made it difficult to meet regularly. In April 2021, the doors officially opened with just five or six people attending. Today, more than 20 people regularly use the service, which has become an important lifeline for many in the local community.

“At the beginning we only opened twice a week and simply offered tea and biscuits,” Liz explains. “Now it has become somewhere people feel safe, understood, and accepted.”

What makes the hub unique is that everyone involved has lived experience of recovery. Volunteers understand the realities of the challenges people face because many have been through similar experiences themselves.

Most people attending are people who have problematic relationships with substances, although the group aims to support anyone facing addictive behaviours. The focus is on connection, encouragement, and providing a sense of belonging.

On Wednesdays and Fridays, the group hosts Recovery in Cheshire East (RICE) meetings from 12 noon until 1.30pm. These sessions give people the opportunity to talk openly about how they are feeling or simply listen to others. Tea, coffee, biscuits, sandwiches, and breakfast baps are all provided free of charge.

Over the years, the hub has expanded beyond meetings alone. A gardening group plants seasonal crops and fruit trees, while craft sessions and a participant-led music group help build confidence and friendships. Social events such as barbecues, Northern Soul days, pool tournaments, and Halloween parties also help create a strong sense of community.

The group works closely with Change, Grow, Live (CGL), Cheshire East’s drug and alcohol support service, although no referral is needed to attend.

Liz believes recovery begins with honesty and courage. “The first step is recognising there’s a problem. The second, and bravest, is asking for help.”

For anyone struggling, the message is simple — you are not alone, and support is available.

The hub is now open four days a week at St Andrew’s Church Hall:

• Mondays: 12pm – 4pm

• Wednesdays: 10am – 5pm

• Fridays: 10am – 5pm

• Saturdays: 10am – 12 noon

For more information, contact Liz on 07870 565224, visit www.connextions.org.uk or simply drop in during opening hours.