COMMUNITY ACTION
Take a look at some of the wonderful ideas our ambassadors have had, and have gone on to create in their communities
Intuitive Thinking Skills provides a skills-based platform for those wanting to volunteer in Stockport and / or those who want to create community-focused services within the local area.
FOCUS GROUP Leslie and Andrew were part of a focus group in Brinnington, liaising with public health and local GPs to create two community groups for people struggling with isolation, substance misuse or mental health issues. There are currently ten to 12 regular attendees each week. It is available through local social prescribing professionals.
LANCASHIRE HILL Kaz and Laura set up a weekly group at Lancashire Hill. They regularly have other services attending to promote their work, such as heart rate checks, continuing education, credit union and sexual health. The group is part of the local social prescribing service and takes referrals from GPs and other service professionals. Currently, ten to 15 people attend each week.
‘ For over 15 years I used heroin and crack and didnʼt socialise. I finally stopped using and got off my substitute prescription in 2024. Now living substance-free, I still never socialised and felt unable to communicate with people. A worker at Cirtek House suggested attending Kaz and Lauraʼs Chill and Chat group. The first time I attended I felt uneasy as I wasnʼt used to people talking to me and taking an interest. It felt strange, but I felt welcomed immediately and like I should be there. Each week Iʼve attended has got easier to the point I no longer fear things. I used to walk with my head down fearing making eye contact with anyone, but the other day I realised I was walking tall with my head held high.’( Group member JF)
SEWING CLASS Susie delivers a community-based sewing class at the Olive Branch. She teaches locals how to alter and recycle clothing to create new items, helping them to save money and the environment. Susie’ s sewing class is attended by more than ten people every week, with participants learning a skill for life.
‘ I was in treatment and I thought I would like to give something back to the community by starting a sewing class. People can buy charity clothes very cheaply and I can show them how to make them into something else, mend them or alter them, whilst spending time with a group of likeminded people who want to be in a warm and lovely environment.’( Susie)
‘ Some of us have gone through recovery, some of us haven’ t, but it’ s nice because we’ re all
Above: Community-based sewing class at the Olive Branch.
bringing different things and talking about different things. Everyone’ s got different projects so we can learn from each other whilst working on our individual projects. I have learnt a lot so far, it’ s just brilliant and Susie’ s lovely, she’ s amazing.’( Group member Kirsty)
DRINK AND DRUGS NEWS • JULY / AUGUST 2025 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE