Two ‘recovery champions’ shared their experiences of overcoming addiction as part of SHP’s SHINE event, which celebrated and championed the achievements of people in recovery.

Pat and Kevin, former clients of SHP, both spoke about their experiences at SHINE, an event organised by SHP’s Camden Recovery, Islington Aftercare and Haringey Education, Training and Employment (ETE) services.

Pat, who was a client of Camden Recovery, spoke about how he transformed his life after realising his addiction was ruining his relationship with his children: “I went from being addicted to drugs at rock bottom to being the best bus driver in London. People have phoned up the bus station to tell my manager how impressed they are with me – that never happens.”

After the speeches, the audience was treated to a shadow puppet show, a classical music composition, spoken word poetry and even a rap, all of which were performed by people who are in recovery from, or have recovered from, substance use.

I went from being addicted to drugs at rock bottom to being the best bus driver in London.

Joe Mitchell, Service Manager at Camden Recovery Service, said: “It’s not easy to stand up in front of a room full of people and talk about something so personal. Their stories and performances are truly inspirational. I am sure that hearing from people who have been through recovery will encourage others to access treatment and training.

“We are thrilled that SHINE was such a success and we hope it will encourage and inspire even more people to access support, recover from substance use and move forward with their lives.”

As well as celebrating recovery success stories, the day was also an opportunity for people to find out about the vital work we do in the borough. We were joined by our friends and partners, including The Working Men’s College, AchieveAbility and Ajani.

Find out more about our Education, Training and Employment services.