Member of Parliament for Macclesfield, David Rutley, recently visited local charity Reach Out And Recover (ROAR), to learn more about the work they do in Macclesfield to support people who face addiction issues and homelessness.
David met with Vicky Millward, who helps to run to group, to understand the challenges being faced by those who use ROAR’s services, and discuss the support the group might need in the future.
ROAR were set up as a Community Interest Company, on a non for profit basis in May 2014. They began with no funds and very little support from other professional bodies. However with a lot of hard work, determination, and passion for the cause, they have managed to create a structured recovery housing project, which has already demonstrated successes for the people who are in and have come through ROAR.
People who have turned to ROAR for help have also begun volunteering with local churches, Cheshire & Wirral Partnership and Emerging Horizons, while some have secured work experience with Peaks and Plains Housing Trust. They have also succeeded getting people back together with their families; giving children their parents back and parents their children back. In addition, they have assisted getting one person back in paid employment, while approximately 15 people have not re-entered into the criminal justice system since linking up with ROAR. This in turn has a positive effect on families and communities, while relieving pressures on police and health services locally.
Speaking following the visit, Vicky Millward said, “We aim for people to see the person, not the addict, as there is a lot of stigma and ignorance around the issue of addiction. What people do not see is their stories; the lives behind these people who find themselves in addiction, the traumas and abuse some of these people have experienced from childhood.
“In order for people to begin to see the real person and not the substance, the addiction has to be dealt with, which is what we do here at ROAR. We offer support to people and offer them safe secure accommodation, treat them as an individual, and give them a sense of belonging and hope. We offer a structured timetable, and access community groups to deal with the addiction. We offer them a place where they dare believe in themselves, dare believe they can become the person they were meant to be and show them there is a way out.”
As it is proving to be a much needed and a very beneficial project potentially saving lives, ROAR are trying to source other accommodation in Macclesfield to run alongside the project which they currently have. The group are keen for people with any large properties available for rent to get in touch with them. Any fundraising events to support the service would also be greatly appreciated.
David added, “It is good to see the positive progress being made by the team at ROAR in such a short period of time. I was pleased to have the chance to learn more about their plans for the future. I would like to thank Vicky and everyone involved with the group for their much appreciated work supporting those people who need the important services ROAR provides in the community.”