Celebrating recovery at the 2024 R3 Recovery Awards

 

On 19 September 2024, our adult drug and alcohol service, R3 in Redbridge hosted its annual Recovery Awards at City Gates Conference Centre in Ilford. The event brought together service users, their loved ones, peer mentors, and Via staff for an inspiring celebration of recovery and achievement.

The ceremony honoured individuals who had completed treatment over the past year in Redbridge, with each receiving an award, followed by cheers and applause. It was an opportunity not only to celebrate the success of completing treatment but also to acknowledge the personal journeys and milestones reached along the way.

Service Manager, Helen O’Connor, who hosted the event, reflected on the significance of the occasion saying: “Maybe it’s because I do not have the experience of having children, but when I hear people use the expression ‘bursting with pride,’ I have never quite known what they mean. I do now. Looking back on the incredible achievements of our clients and the projects we have undertaken, it could not be clearer what a fantastic group of colleagues I am blessed to work with. While this event rightly celebrates our clients’ immense achievements, the unwavering support and tools you provide daily have helped them reach their goals with grace.”

Guest Councillor Mark Santos also delivered opening remarks, expressing admiration for the stories of resilience, agency and power shared during the event. He also highlighted the vital role of the Via team, describing them as “a team of people who have your back, people who believe in you.”

The event was also supported by key local figures Gladys Xavier, Director of Public Health, and Andy Hardwick, Senior Integrated Strategic Commissioner for Substance Misuse at Redbridge Council.

A particularly touching moment during the ceremony was the presentation of the Henna Khan Award, named in memory of a dedicated service user who sadly passed away. This award celebrates Henna’s spirit of determination and perseverance and was given to a deserving individual who demonstrated the same strength and commitment in their recovery.

The ceremony also recognised those who have completed our NOVA and Next Steps. Nurturing Opportunities Visions and Aspirations (NOVA) is a motivational course that helps individuals build confidence and develop strategies for positive life changes, while Next Steps supports people in identifying their next move, whether into employment, volunteering, or further education.

Participants who earned their OCN Level 2 Peer Mentoring accreditation were also honoured. This programme builds essential communication and mentoring skills, enabling individuals to support others in recovery and gain valuable work experience.

Volunteers were also celebrated for their invaluable contributions in supporting the R3 team, receiving bouquets of flowers.

Education, Training and Employment (ETE) Lead, Charlene Samuda spoke about the tremendous impact of the R3 women’s safe space over the past 12 months. She highlighted how many of the people who completed these courses wouldn’t have so easily done so if they didn’t have the option to take part in this space.

Following the inspirational and uplifting ceremony, guests enjoyed a delicious lunch and a chance to connect and socialise outside of the service.

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For more about Via – Redbridge, visit: https://www.viaorg.uk/services/redbridge-r3/.