The rain started again, hammering on the hood of my cagoul. December rain in Lancaster is particularly unforgiving. I found sanctuary in a 'dug out' by the football pitches of Lancaster University, whilst all around people were peeling off layers of clothing revealing football kits.
This was my day 28 in a Directorship of The Well Communities, attending an inter-hub football tournament with players of all genders and all ages, with one thing in common. All are in recovery from addiction. All are living a new way of life and working out what the hell happened in the run up to finding hope and connection in the community that is a recovery organisation.
Lindsay Graham, People First Director and Ian Treasure, the Well Communities Director
Being 51 years old I used age as a perfect excuse not to injure myself and watched on. I noticed a chap sat, wrapped up from the cold. I introduced myself by name, not title. He told me his name is Luke, is 32 and is 50 days clean (this is a term that people use on themselves when they finally break free from the physical compulsion to use drink or drugs). Luke told me that he was ready for leaving, he was fed up, and would be better off living in a tent away from everyone. I asked if that was a good plan in December; he smiled. I asked if he was playing football, to which he replied "maybe next time" as everyone was "getting on his nerves"
I remained with him. The reality of recovery and the daily, sometimes minute by minute battle people face was there right in front of me.
I told him that everyone got on my nerves when I was 50 days clean, and at 100 days, and still at a year. I also told him that some people get on my nerves today. He looked up and smiled, replying "I bet they do". I asked Luke what step he was working on and he told me Step 3.
I pointed out that he had just worked step 3 by telling me how he was truly feeling, trusting a 'power greater than himself' with that information, and it takes the power out of the negative. I also told him that many others would be feeling exactly the same but not speaking. He nodded.
Addiction is a subtle foe for those that have it, and master of self-deception that it is, can convince any but the most vigilant that a risky idea is sound. Early recovery features a very busy mind trying to cope with all the human senses returning immediately with great intensity. Only those that have lived through it truly know this living hell. Do not underestimate the bravery of every man and woman currently winning this daily battle.
When I was called away a few moments later I told him i'd be back. When I looked round Luke was with his keyworker who I had quickly briefed. This was a relief - he was getting the support and love ubiquitous at The Well Communities.
Now I was faced with the difficult task of refereeing 7 a side football… except it wasn't difficult. No fouls, only one contentious goal scored and a triumphant Barrow team lifting the silverware. This was much more than football though.
What I witnessed today was a great metaphor for 'The Well Communities'. Great team work, concern, just enough planning, and people dropping into positions to help each other out - exactly what the residents do for each other, and it doesn't end there. As a Lived Experience Recovery Organisation, The Well employs people in recovery who also help each other out. We give some people their first paid roles, we inspire them to be the best version of themselves. Its true that The Well Communities has helped hundreds of local people find recovery, but in each of those people exists courage that is infectious. We just provide the space for them to work miracles on themselves and each other.
Story by Ian Treasure - The Well Communities Director
