"I found out about Change Grow Live when I was in recovery myself. I’ve not been street homeless, but I have been through the hostel systems. From when I was 16 to 26, I was constantly moving between hostels and I was addicted to drugs. I’ve basically been through every hostel in Brighton. My addiction and mental health were horrendous. It’s a battle every single day, but I’m doing so much better now. I’m 21 months sober and that means everything to me, I absolutely could not have done it without Change Grow Live.
Even throughout my addiction, I’ve always wanted to help others. Even as a child, I’d see someone fall over and want to go over and help them – my mum loves telling that story! It was a big motivator for my recovery, knowing I could help people that have gone through what I have.
I really didn’t want people to feel like I felt, or that they didn’t have anyone to talk to. I can be there for them and support them. If I can do it, anyone can! Change Grow Live has given me so much confidence. It keeps me feeling good about myself while helping other people. I can see how far I’ve come, and I can be an example for others in recovery.
I managed to get through the mentor training, and I didn’t think I’d ever be able to do it, but I worked hard, and I did really well. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my life – it’s given me everything I’ve ever wanted. People see me and know I’ve overcome my issues and realise they can do it too.
Volunteering at Change Grow Live helps Dan with his own recovery.
I used to be a client at the groups I’m now volunteering at. I was not in a good way, so it’s a great example for people there to see that I’ve gone through it and I’m doing well now. Going to the groups keeps me on a level that’s good for my recovery – I’m not sitting around doing nothing feeling bad about myself, I’m out there helping people.
I was the first young person’s mentor for Change Grow Live in Brighton. I try and be the person that I wish I had when I was in that situation. I can give them information and point them towards services that can help them. I was helped by the service, and now I can help the service as a mentor. I’m massively grateful to Change Grow Live for everything they’ve done for me."