Over 300 service users recovering from alcohol and drug problems and their families took part in a special event in Doncaster to celebrate their recovery and keep fit – and the top teams all came from Doncaster. ILLY is proud to have worked with our partners, New Beginnings to support the event.
The first ever Recovery Games event at Hatfield Outdoor Activity Centre was organised by Drug and Alcohol Services run by Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH). The event consisted of teams of RDaSH staff and service users playing against each other in eight activities and challenges. These included a Gladiator climbing challenge, archery, low ropes, eliminator running, kata-canoeing, jousting, a giant buzz wire and a wrecking ball.
Teams took part from Scunthorpe, Rotherham, Grimsby, Derbyshire, York, Sheffield and from a number of services across Doncaster. As well as competing for the Recovery Games Shield, trophies and medals were presented by the Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones for the most creatively dressed team to promote team spirit, and the Fair Play Award for the team that showed a true sportsman’s spirit throughout all the events.
The winners of the Recovery Games Shield were Reece’s Rhinos from New Beginnings in Doncaster, the Fair Play Award went to the Recovery Rangers from the single point of access team in Doncaster, and the most creatively designed team went to M25 from Doncaster.
The games were free to enter but teams were asked to raise money for the Aurora cancer charity through sponsorship. So far the event has raised nearly £400, with money still rolling in. The day was family friendly with plenty to see and do, such as face painting, circus skill workshops, health and wellbeing displays, children’s bouncy castles, reflexology and Indian head massages. There was also the opportunity to listen to a range of guest speakers offering inspiration and hope, and a sense of pride about recovery from substances and alcohol.
Neil Firbank, RDaSH Outreach Practitioner, who organised the event said:
‘This event has had such a fantastic response, with 22 teams who wanted to come, but we only had room for 16. The York team members are so impressed they are hoping to host it next year and so we can make it an annual event. The activities challenged participants and pushed them to use their skills and abilities to conquer the challenges they were faced with. Our overall message was that abstinence is healthy. It’s been a day to remember.’
To read about some of ILLY’s work with substance misuse clients take a look at our case studies.
Alternatively, to find out more feel free to call on 020 7749 2222.