We believe: 

• in the transformative power of learning and the role it plays in liberating people from shame. 
• that every human being has the right to flourish. 
• that everyone has the right to feel – emotions and a connection to our bodies is our birthright. 
• in the accessibility of knowledge. 
• that everyone has the right to live with dignity, respect and fulfill their potential. 
• that people are multi-faceted, capable human beings and see them as being more than the label of an addict. 

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We support people to manage the often difficult transition between leaving treatment services and being part of society.

Our approach focuses on: 

• Broadening the focus on individuals as whole, complex people rather than as addicts. This begins as soon as people enter our referral process and throughout their journey with us. 

• Being intentional in all we do to support this shift in identity. From using deliberate terminology (people are ‘trainees with tutors’ not ‘service-users with key workers’ for instance) to creating a space for learning and being that is warm, calming and non-clinical.

• Supporting a shift in people’s relationship to learning through exploring theories and ideas in a way that is accessible, stimulating and engaging, and that harnesses their natural curiosity. 

• Supporting people to develop vocabulary and language to make sense of theirs and others’ lives, and the world around them. 

• Encouraging people to develop systemic, critical and meta cognitive thinking skills through which they shed previously held negative beliefs about themselves, learn to trust themselves and find their voices. 

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Our approach to recovery

The majority of the individuals we work with are abstinent, although we also work with people on low doses of substitute medication. We recognise that abstinence is merely the first step in a much longer journey, contrary to the traditional view of it being the end goal. In this way, we see our work as a fundamental and complementary extension to what is currently considered the end of treatment.

Building on this foundation of stability, we emphasise the importance of understanding the root causes of substance use and other coping mechanisms. These are often deeply connected to trauma and the broader social, economic, and structural conditions in which people live. This big picture, systemic, perspective helps individuals move from self-blame to understanding, and helps with the letting go of shame and stigma.

It is at this stage that people can truly begin to rebuild their lives, establishing strong foundations on which to build their futures upon. It is from this place that they are able to integrate and own their histories without shame, discover who they are and invest energy in what gives them meaning and purpose. 

Our approach helps individuals move beyond mere abstinence to a place of profound personal growth and empowerment, ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to thrive in their lives.

Learn more about our courses.