Ara Recovery For All

04/11/2025

Confidence, courage, and connection

Our Community Engagement team recently took clients on a brilliant watersports adventure at Bristol Harbourside. The group split between kayaking and a scenic boat ride — with plenty of fun and laughter.

Kayakers paddled toward the city centre, gaining confidence before joining in a race on the way back — cheered on by those aboard the boat, who acted as judges at the finish line! The boat group added to the fun with Halloween props, and even a surprise encounter with a territorial goose 🦢😂.

Despite the chilly weather, everyone showed incredible courage and positivity, stepping out of their comfort zones to connect, support each other, and enjoy the moment.

💬 “What a difference a day makes.”
💬 “Thank you very much for organising today — it was great fun! 🤩”

02/10/2025

CQC praised Ara for being responsive and inclusive.

Our support is shaped around the person — whether that means flexible session times, a choice between remote or face-to-face support, or creating personalised care plans to meet individual goals.

We listen, adapt, and respond, making sure every person feels supported in the way that works best for them.

You can find out more on our website here.
https://www.recovery4all.co.uk/ara-receives-an-excellent-cqc-report-for-gambling-harms-support-services/

29/09/2025

Ara’s Peer Academy – Turning Lived Experience into Lasting Change

At Ara’s Peer Academy, we believe that lived experience is a powerful tool for recovery. Our Peer Academy offers people in recovery from substance use or homelessness the chance to use their journey to inspire others, gain new skills, and build a brighter future.

👥 What is the Peer Academy?

The Peer Academy is a structured training and volunteering programme that equips people with lived experience to become Peer Mentors. As a Peer Mentor, you’ll provide emotional, social, and practical support to people in the early stages of recovery.

Mentors aren’t counsellors or clinicians – they’re role models, guides, and companions. By sharing recovery tools, building confidence, and reducing isolation, Peer Mentors play a vital role in helping others move forward.

🎓 Training & Support

Every Peer Mentor starts with Phase 1 Core Training (around 6 weeks, 2 half days), covering:

- Safeguarding
- Boundaries
- Group work skills
- Self-care and wellbeing

Mentors can then progress to Phase 2, with opportunities to gain accredited qualifications, apprenticeships and employment support.

✨ Why Join?

Becoming a Peer Mentor is about more than giving back – it’s also about personal growth. Volunteers gain:

- Confidence and a stronger sense of purpose
- New skills and training opportunities
- A chance to connect with a supportive community
- Experience to boost your CV or explore careers in recovery services

🧡 Who Can Volunteer?

This role is open to anyone with lived experience of recovery from substance use who:

- Has been abstinent for at least 6 months
- Feels they are in a stable place in their own recovery
- Is ready to support people in the early stages of recovery
- Be the Hope You Once Needed.

If you’re ready to inspire others with your story and take the next step in your own journey, Ara’s Peer Academy is here for you.

📧 Email: recruitment@recovery4all.co.uk
📞 Call: 07852 657850
🌐 Learn more: https://www.recovery4all.co.uk/peer-mentor-volunteer-job-ad/

26/09/2025

Kindness, respect, and compassion run through everything Ara does.

CQC found that people consistently described our staff as approachable, non-judgemental, and genuinely committed to helping them. Many told inspectors they felt heard for the first time and trusted that staff really cared.

For us, recovery isn’t just about treatment — it’s about being there with empathy and dignity every step of the way.

You can find out more on our website here.
https://www.recovery4all.co.uk/ara-receives-an-excellent-cqc-report-for-gambling-harms-support-services/

24/09/2025

Rydym ni’n falch iawn o rannu bod Ara wedi symud ein swyddfa yn Ne Cymru i SBARC — Parc Ymchwil y Gwyddorau Cymdeithasol Prifysgol Caerdydd.

Rydym ni’n ymlaen at ddod i adnabod cymuned SBARC ac adeiladu partneriaethau sy'n rhoi gobaith a bywydau gwell ledled Cymru.


# EffaithGymdeithasol

23/09/2025

23/09/2025

We’re delighted to announce that Ara has moved our South Wales office to SPARK – Cardiff University’s Social Science Research Park.

We look forward to getting to know the Spark community and building partnerships that provide hope and better lives across Wales.

21/09/2025

On 30th September, Torbay will shine as a beacon of courage, compassion, and connection as it welcomes the Baton of Hope – raising awareness of su***de prevention and mental health.

At Ara, we’re proud to walk alongside our communities, carrying a message that every life matters, every conversation matters, and hope can help.

“Being a Baton Bearer is a huge honour. I lost both my sister and cousin to su***de, so this is deeply personal.” – Kai, Ara Community Engagement Lead

“Since joining Ara, I’ve received ASIST training and become more aware of su***de prevention, especially in diverse communities.” – Chaz, Ara Community Engagement Lead

📍 The baton will travel through Torquay, Paignton & Brixham with wellbeing events, music, and activities for all.

The day ends with the BIG Show of Hope fundraiser at the Riviera International Centre.

Full details: or torbaybatonofhope.com
Learn more about Ara’s support: recovery4all.co.uk/gambling-harms-services