By Laiba Saleem
A Leicester-based recovery centre is offering a different approach to addiction support, putting lived experience at the centre of its work.
Dear Albert is a community rehabilitation hub where everyone who works there is in recovery themselves.
The centre runs support throughout the week, offering a wide range of peer-led groups and mutual aid programmes.
“We have a giant menu of all the different groups and of all the different support that we offer here,” said Kyra Biddle, one of the centre managers at Dear Albert.
These include ACT (Acceptance Commitment Training), SMART (Self-Management and Recovery Training), and fellowship meetings such as AA (Alcohol Anonymous), CA (Cocaine Anonymous) and NA (Narcotics Anonymous).
She said, unlike more traditional services, Dear Albert takes a holistic and recovery-focused approach.
“It is not so medically structured,” Miss Biddle said, adding that seeing others in recovery “gave me hope.”
The team also run creative activities such as film screenings, art therapy and monthly DryDay festivals, which help people reconnect with everyday life.
Ultimately, Dear Albert aims to show that recovery is achievable.
“It is possible,” Miss Biddle said. “Everyone deserves a second chance at life.”
To find out more, visit their website or text them on 07712 707999.
