New addiction recovery programme to launch in Cornwall
Figures show drug deaths in England and Wales have almost doubled since 2012
A new addiction recovery programme will be launched in Cornwall to offer support - as services continue to be put under pressure.
According to recent figures from the Office of National Statistics drug deaths in England and Wales have almost doubled since 2012 - rising from 2,597 to 4,859.
First founded in 2008 in Dartmoor, Rite to Freedom will offer services, including meditation-based practices, opportunities for creativity and nature connection, to people in the Duchy to help with long-term recovery and bring meaning, purpose and joy to their lives.
Paul Finn, training facilitator and local programme co-ordinator in Cornwall, told us about his own personal experience with addiction:
"There's not a great deal out there for people"
"When I came into recovery, the other meetings I was accessing were really good and helpful but I needed something more to try and help me.
"A lot of places have been shut down and that puts even more pressure on the services that are still ongoing. There's not a great deal out there for people out there to get the support that I think they need.
"The pressure on local services is immense. The frontline services do a certain job but this is more catering for people, to maintain their recovery in the community.
"That's quite a difficult thing"
The group was first set up by creative director, Caspar, who founded the charity and experienced a 30-year long journey of addiction and recovery.
Him, alongside others in the team are now using their lived experience to help others.
Catt Kinsey from Rite to Freedom said: "Supporting people, to essentially to make healthy connections. Be part of a community. Have a sense of belonging.
"Addiction is full of disconnection and you just feel so isolated."
The charity aims to encourage people to take part in residential retreats as well as regular online and face to face meetings, to help bring people into supportive services close to home.
On Saturday 9th September the group will host a launch event and exhibition at The Poly, Falmouth for people to learn more and connect with the Cornwall recovery community and family and friends of those in recovery.
You can find information about their launch on The Poly website.