National Lottery funding helps people recovering from substance misuse and mental health problems
“The Space,” a peer led project in Leeds managed and run by the Bridge Project Charity has received £332K from the Big Lottery Fund.
The project has a steering group led by the Space beneficiaries and provides a safe and sober social network alongside health and well-being activities for people leaving treatment.
Chief Executive of the Bridge Project Jon Royle said: “We’re delighted and incredibly grateful to have received this grant. The funding effectively secures the future of The Space for the next three years and will enable us to expand our membership and the scope of activities, including providing people with access to a range of qualifications and accredited courses. Wherever possible the planning and design of the service has been led by the members who use it, who are the real experts on their needs and requirements.”
The Space provides a vital link in supporting people who have recently completed substance misuse and mental health treatment programmes and have chosen to live a sober lifestyle. It helps break the cycle of substance misuse and offending through a combination of peer support and giving people the life skills and resilience to resist relapse and temptation.
James Harcourt, England Grant-Making Director at Big Lottery Fund, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, The Bridge Project will be able to continue providing much-needed support for people in recovery and people with mental health issues. We’re delighted to be funding such an amazing and important project to expand its work.”
Space beneficiary John said: ”It's absolutely fabulous that The Space is getting Lottery money, so it can continue helping vulnerable individuals into recovery.” Another member Barry described the funding as: “Like water in a desert”. ... See MoreSee Less
4 weeks ago ·
Today for volunteer week we are going to honour one of our former volunteers (who I am sure many of you will recognise!)
Martell works at The Bridge Project as part of the admin team. Here is her story.
"I was a drug user for 15 years and experienced all the things that go with that. Bridge helped me get clean and I wanted to become a volunteer so I could give something back for all the help they had given me. I got to do so many roles as a volunteer, from helping in the gym to supporting The Vault. I also helped run a computer class and did acupuncture for clients. I volunteered for three years before successfully gaining part time employment here, which became full time after four months. I have learnt and developed so much. I am now using my skills and experience to support volunteers who give their time to meet and greet clients accessing the service and I love it - I can be a mentor and support someone in their volunteer journey as well as gain new skills.
My message to volunteers is thank you for all you do, for making a difference, for being willing to learn. If you work hard and show commitment then you will reach your goals!"
#youmakethedifference #volunteerweek ... See MoreSee Less
2 months ago ·
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Rachel is another of our fantastic volunteers, supporting the 4Women service three days a week. Here is what she has to say about volunteering:
“Volunteering is part of my recovery. An opportunity to show I’m not just an ex drug user. Giving back to the people who are starting their recovery or are still in active addiction brings me so much reward. Volunteering is a way to build up your confidence, knowledge, training and bring meaning back to your life.”
#youmakethedifference #volunteerweek ... See MoreSee Less
2 months ago ·
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Greenie is just one of Bridge’s amazing volunteers, supporting delivery of services three days a week. Here is what he had to say about volunteering:
“Bridge and Unity has changed my life from attending as a client 4 years ago. I accessed all the process groups and got through the battle of multiple addictions. I started the health and social care course Bridge offers about 18 months ago, and loved all the learning and becoming more educated. I now volunteer in the A.I.M group, the group I first attended, and I love it. I also volunteer in the Fresh Start Hub, and all the support I get from staff is brilliant. As a volunteer at Bridge we are all looked after, the Volunteer Coordinator is always there for us, providing support and information. We volunteers at Bridge are like one big happy family. Come and join us. Greenie x”
#youmakethedifference #volunteerweek ... See MoreSee Less
2 months ago ·
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