The problem with recovery for a former drug/alcohol abuser is that self-esteem and confidence can take a tumble, they have feelings of isolation, shame, guilt, abandonment, anger and rage. Their addiction can have led to poor health, loss of employment and a loss of involvement in their family or community. There may have been involvement with crime because of the financial consequences of their past drug & alcohol using behaviours.

The Next Stage Project will promote healthy living through outdoor activities. It will build up people’s self esteem by having a ‘can do’ attitude. It will also look at self efficacy and promoting individuals to receive and provide support to each other by looking into through care involvement that could lead to peer-led support not only within the group/project, but building new social networks that promote abstinence and recovery.