Join Our Team

Exciting Opportunities to Make a Real Difference

Thanks to generous support from The National Lottery Community Fund and The Access Foundation, we’re expanding our team — and we’d love you to be part of it.

We’re not just building services — we’re building a movement. One grounded in co-production, community empowerment, and person-led support. And we’re growing.

We are currently recruiting for the following roles:

Community Development Officer – 3-Year Funding (Extension Subject to Continuation Funding)
Full-time | £28,000 – 35hrs |Based in Kilmarnock (Including Urban and Rural East Ayrshire)
Work closely with local communities to design, deliver, and develop inclusive initiatives that foster connection, promote well-being, and support recovery. Ideal for someone with strong community engagement experience and a passion for grassroots change.

Hub Support Worker – 2-Year Funding (Extension Subject to Continuation Funding)
Full-time | £26,000 – 35hrs | Based in Kilmarnock
Support individuals within our One Stop Shop through daily, in-person engagement and structured group activities. Ideal for someone with lived or professional experience of recovery, who is confident facilitating groups and passionate about creating a safe, inclusive environment for growth and connection.

Digital Inclusion Officer – 1-Year Funding (Extension Subject to Continuation Funding)
Full-time | £26,000 – 35hrs | Based in Kilmarnock (Including Urban and Rural East Ayrshire)
Help bridge the digital divide by supporting individuals in accessing technology, building digital skills, and using online services with confidence. Perfect for a tech-savvy communicator with a drive to empower others.

Peer Outreach Worker – 2-Year Funding (Extension Subject to Continuation Funding)
Full-time | £26,000 – 35hrs | Based in Kilmarnock (Including Kilmarnock South)
Use your own lived experience to engage, inspire, and support individuals who may be disconnected from services or struggling with isolation. A key role for someone who understands the challenges of recovery first-hand and is passionate about reaching people where they are.

Why Work With Us?

At EACHa, we believe in doing things differently. We centre lived experience, empower communities, and build services with — not just for — the people who use them.

When you join our team, you’re not just taking on a job — you’re becoming part of a movement that’s helping reshape how recovery and support are delivered across Scotland.

We offer:

• A supportive, inclusive workplace where EACH Person Matters
• Opportunities for meaningful training and career development
• A role in pioneering, community-led work that makes a real difference
• A values-driven culture built on collaboration, compassion, and hope

How to Apply

To find out more about each role, please download the descriptions below –

• • Community Development Officer – https://eacharecovery.org/community-development-officer-job-description/
  • Hub Support Worker – https://eacharecovery.org/hub-support-worker-job-description/
  • Digital Inclusion Officer – https://eacharecovery.org/digital-inclusion-officer-job-description/
  • Peer Outreach Worker – https://eacharecovery.org/peer-outreach-worker-job-description/

🌐 Download an application form here (CV’s will not be accepted) – https://eacharecovery.org/application-form/

📧 Applications must be submitted to [email protected]

Application deadline: 30th July 2025

Transforming Recovery, Together

We are proud to introduce a bold new chapter in community-led crisis and recovery support in East Ayrshire.

EACH Recovery Matters presents the One Stop Shop—a purpose-designed, trauma-informed hub located in the heart of Kilmarnock. Built on real-world need and shaped by evidence-based practice, this facility unites crisis response, recovery services, and community empowerment under one welcoming roof.

Why This Matters

In 2023, East Ayrshire faced:

• 31 drug-related and 28 alcohol-related deaths

• One of the highest suicide rates in Scotland

• A critical shortage of accessible, integrated support services

Despite operating from a small, overstretched facility, we have supported thousands. The demand is growing—and so must we. The time to act is now.

Our Vision

To create a central hub where every individual is valued and every recovery journey is respected.

The One Stop Shop offers:

• Crisis triage, suicide prevention, and harm reduction services

• Mental health and addiction support delivered in collaboration with NHS, Police Scotland, Housing, and others

• Accredited training, structured recovery programs, and peer-led support

• Access to food provision, volunteering opportunities, and social enterprise initiatives

• Calm, supportive decompression spaces for both staff and service users

This approach is grounded in the Stages of Change model, ensuring each person receives the right support at the right time in their journey.

The Power of Partnership

The One Stop Shop is more than a building—it’s a shared commitment to change.

Bringing together:

• NHS, Social Work, Criminal Justice, DWP, and more

• Recovery organisations, housing officers, employability teams, and frontline services

Together, we streamline delivery, build trust, and bridge the gap between crisis and sustainable recovery.

Sustainability Through Collaboration

Our model is designed for long-term impact through:

• Social enterprise revenue and accredited training delivery

• Room hire and event hosting for local partners

• Strong community involvement and volunteer leadership

• Strategic funding partnerships across public, private, and third sectors

How You Can Help

We invite our community, partners, and decision-makers to stand with us in this transformation.

• Invest in a vision that saves lives and restores hope

• Partner with us to deliver services and solutions

• Support sustainability through funding, policy alignment, and advocacy

• Share this vision and help us create a legacy of compassion and change

This is not just a project. It is a movement—one rooted in dignity, connection, and the unwavering belief that recovery is possible for everyone.

We’re proud to present Digital Lifelines, a powerful and reflective podcast exploring the vital role of digital access in supporting people on their recovery journey.

Produced in collaboration with Ayrshire Film Company, this episode looks back on our Digital Lifelines Project, funded by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO). This initiative provided digital devices, internet connectivity, and tailored training to individuals facing significant transitions, including those leaving prison, residential treatment, or experiencing homelessness.

The Importance of Digital Access

For many people in recovery, access to the digital world is not a luxury — it’s a lifeline. From reconnecting with family and friends to attending virtual support groups, applying for housing or employment, and accessing essential services, digital access is often the bridge to rebuilding a meaningful life.

Through this project, we’ve seen firsthand how technology, when paired with the right support, can empower individuals to take their next steps with confidence and dignity.

What to Expect in the Podcast

This episode brings together personal stories and professional insights, offering a raw and honest look at how digital inclusion can transform lives. You’ll hear from:

• Individuals who received devices and digital training through the project

• Peer workers and staff who helped deliver the initiative

• Reflections on the challenges, lessons learned, and lasting impact of Digital Lifelines

With heartfelt accounts and thoughtful discussion, this podcast serves as a testament to the strength and potential of people in recovery — and the importance of meeting them with the right tools at the right time.

Watch or Listen

Our Thanks

We extend our sincere thanks to SCVO for making this work possible, and to Ayrshire Film Company for capturing these stories with such care and integrity. Most of all, we thank the individuals who trusted us with their journeys and voices.

Digital Lifelines has not only opened doors — it has helped to rebuild futures.

Ready for a Week of Renewal and Positive Energy?

Excited to kickstart a new week with vibrant energy and opportunities for self-improvement? At EACH Recovery Matters, we’re buzzing with anticipation to unveil a lineup of enriching activities designed to accompany you on your recovery journey. Brace yourself for a week brimming with inspiration, empowerment, and heaps of positive vibes!

Here’s what’s in store:

• Transformative Workshops: Step into our enlightening workshops crafted to provide you with actionable insights and tools for your path to recovery. From the calmness offered by mindfulness practices to the expressive outlet of art therapy, these workshops are your gateway to self-discovery and care.
• Inspirational Group Sessions: Find solidarity and strength in our community group sessions. This is your space to exchange stories, engage in meaningful conversations, and secure support from peers who truly understand the ups and downs of recovery.
• Holistic Wellness Classes: Treat your mind, body, and spirit to our range of holistic wellness classes. Whether it’s the tranquility of reiki you seek or the invigorating energy of outdoor groups, you’re sure to leave feeling rejuvenated and more aligned with your recovery objectives.
• Supportive Peer Networks: Forge meaningful connections within our welcoming community through peer-supported networks. Rely on one another for encouragement, insight, and a collective sense of unity as we navigate the complexities of recovery together.

Remember, you’re not embarking on this journey solo. Our dedicated team of professionals is always here, ready to provide advice, support, or simply lend a listening ear.

Let’s band together to embrace a future marked by hope, grit, and boundless possibilities! With our combined efforts, there’s no obstacle too great on the path to sustained recovery.

Here we reflect on the achievements, challenges, and profound impact of our work over the past year. This report captures how our programmes have touched the lives of thousands in East Ayrshire, addressing critical issues like drug and alcohol-related deaths, homelessness, mental health struggles, and social isolation.

Our mission aligns closely with Scotland’s National Mission to reduce drug-related harm and deaths, but our work extends beyond addiction. By tackling interconnected challenges, we create a holistic pathway to recovery, fostering lasting change for individuals and communities.

Key Highlights:
This year, our efforts have resulted in:

• 4,383 hot meals served and 2,383 food packs distributed to those in need.
• 297 individuals supported in their recovery, with over 2,108 one-to-one sessions delivered.
• 220 Friendly Fresh Start packs provided, enabling individuals and families to transition from homelessness to stable housing.
• A 400% increase in women supported through our EACH Woman Matters programme, reflecting the growing need for gender-responsive support.
• Innovative collaborations, such as the New Heights programme with Above Adventure, empowering individuals through physical and mental challenges.

Each of these numbers tells a story of resilience, hope, and transformation—stories we are proud to share in this report.

Our Challenges:
As demand for our services grows, so do the challenges we face. Sustainable funding remains a significant hurdle, and securing long-term support from our key partners, including the local authority, is critical to maintaining and expanding our programmes. Without a collective commitment to this mission, the vital lifeline we provide to East Ayrshire’s most vulnerable populations is at risk.

A Call to Action:
We invite you to explore the full report to gain deeper insight into the lives we’ve impacted and the work still to be done. Together, we can shine a light on the importance of community-driven solutions and advocate for the resources needed to ensure no one is left behind.

Download the Report:
Click here to download the Social Impact Report 2024

Join the Conversation:
Help us spread the word about the importance of tackling these pressing issues. Share this report, reach out to your local representatives, and consider supporting our mission through donations, partnerships, or volunteering.

Together, we can build a brighter future for East Ayrshire.

EACH Woman Matters: Meaningful, compassionate support for women by women

Empowering Voices, Healing as a Community

Understanding women’s unique challenges in discussing mental health and recovery, EACH Recovery Matters proudly introduces EACH Woman Matters every Friday. This day stands as a sanctuary of support, empathy, and unconditional acceptance, fostering a judgment-free environment.

A Confidential Space to Connect and Grow

Our weekly peer support meetings offer women a secure place to discuss their struggles, triumphs, and life stories. In this space, every woman is encouraged to speak openly, secure in the knowledge that her experiences are important and shared by empathetic peers who understand her journey.

Breaking Barriers, Building Strength

We are dedicated to turning vulnerability into a source of empowerment, challenging the stigmas many women face. Engaging in our women’s group places you at the heart of a collective effort to build resilience and promote mental health awareness within our community and beyond.

United in the Pursuit of Well-being

Your mental health is a critical aspect of your overall well-being, and navigating its complexities requires a circle of support. EACH Recovery Matters is your partner in this exploration and healing process. Here, fellowship, support, and mutual understanding are the foundation of your recovery journey.

Speak Up. Share Your Story. Heal Together. EACH Woman Matters.

We invite you to join us every Friday from 9am till 4pm to be part of a community that celebrates your mental wellness and supports your path to recovery every step of the way.

Empowering You to Tackle Rising Energy Costs – Home Energy Scotland Visits

We understand the concerns surrounding the rising energy prices and the impact they have on our daily lives. That’s why we’re excited to announce that Home Energy Scotland will be visiting our hub, to provide you with valuable information and support.

Mark your calendars for these upcoming dates and times:

• Wednesday 22 May, 2-3pm
• Wednesday 3 July, 2-3pm
• Wednesday 21 August, 2-3pm

Home Energy Scotland experts will be available to offer free, impartial advice on a range of topics including:

1. Saving Energy: Learn practical tips and techniques to reduce your energy consumption at home. Discover simple changes you can make that will have a significant impact on your energy bills.
2. Keeping Warm at Home: Discover effective ways to keep your home warm during colder months without breaking the bank. From insulation solutions to heating controls, find out how to create a cosy and energy-efficient living space.
3. Renewable Energy: Explore the possibilities of renewable energy sources for your home. Discover how solar panels, heat pumps, and other green technologies can help you save money while reducing your carbon footprint.
4. Water Waste Reduction: Uncover strategies to cut down on water waste in your household. Learn about water-saving devices, behaviour changes, and other measures that promote efficient water usage.

Financial Support Programs: Home Energy Scotland also provides detailed information on various financial support programs designed to assist individuals facing financial challenges due to the cost of living crisis. These programs include debt assistance schemes, emergency funding options, fuel vouchers, and more. Take advantage of this resourceful list of services that can provide much-needed relief during difficult times.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert knowledge and access valuable support from Home Energy Scotland! Join us at our hub on the specified dates mentioned above or reach out directly for more information.

Let’s tackle the cost of living crisis together!

Welcome to the Community Gardening Group at the Howard Park

Join us every Tuesday at 10 am for a morning of gardening, learning, and community spirit at the Cholera Gardens, located in the heart of Kilmarnock’s Howard Park. This initiative, supported by East Ayrshire Council, invites green thumbs and gardening novices alike to come together to cultivate beauty and sustainability in our local park.

About the Community Gardening Group

Our Community Gardening Group offers a chance to engage with nature and contribute to the beautification of the Cholera Gardens. Whether you’re experienced in gardening or just looking to get your hands dirty for the first time, this group is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, learn about plant care, and meet fellow community members who share your passion for gardening.

What We Offer

• Gardening Activities: Plant, prune, and maintain the vibrant flora of Cholera Gardens. Our activities range from basic gardening tasks to more specialized projects, depending on the season and needs of the garden.
• Educational Opportunities: Learn from experienced gardeners and occasional guest experts who share tips on everything from botany to sustainable gardening practices.
• Community Building: Connect with people from all walks of life who come together for a common purpose. Gardening is a wonderful way to build community ties and promote environmental stewardship.

Why Join Our Gardening Group?

Gardening is not only a peaceful, therapeutic activity but also a powerful way to positively impact the environment. Participants in our group will benefit from:

• Enhanced Well-being: Spending time outdoors and engaging in physical activity like gardening has been shown to improve mental and physical health.
• Learning and Growth: Gain practical gardening skills and knowledge about various plant species, garden design, and ecological sustainability.
• Community Contribution: Play a role in enhancing one of Kilmarnock’s cherished public spaces, making it a more beautiful and welcoming place for everyone.

How to Join

Interested in joining our Community Gardening Group? Simply show up at EACH Recovery Matters on a Tuesday at 10am. We welcome everyone, from seasoned gardeners to those who are new to the hobby.

Welcome to Write to Recovery

Embark on a journey of self-expression and healing with Write to Recovery, a creative writing group designed to support those on the path to recovery. Hosted every Thursday at 2 pm at EACH Recovery Matters, this group nurtures the writer in you, offering a safe and encouraging space to explore and articulate your experiences through words.

About Write to Recovery

Write to Recovery is guided by a professional tutor with extensive experience in creative writing and personal development. Whether you are new to writing or looking to polish your skills, this group is your gateway to discovering the therapeutic power of writing. Our sessions are structured to inspire creativity, foster personal growth, and enhance your communication skills in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

What We Offer

• Professional Guidance: Each session is led by our expert tutor who provides personalized feedback and tips to help you refine your writing style and voice.
• Supportive Community: Connect with fellow group members who share the journey of recovery. Here, you can exchange ideas, receive encouragement, and build lasting relationships in a community that understands.
• Publication Opportunities: For those interested in sharing their stories beyond the group, we offer support in submitting your work to recognised publications like AA’s Roundabout and CA’s NewsGram. This can be a rewarding opportunity to have your voice heard and contribute to the wider conversation on recovery.

Why Join Write to Recovery?

Writing can be an incredibly effective tool in the recovery process, providing a unique way to process and express emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally. In Write to Recovery, you’ll gain:

• A Therapeutic Outlet: Use the power of writing to navigate the complexities of your emotions and experiences.
• Skill Development: Improve your writing with expert guidance and peer feedback.
• A Sense of Achievement: Experience the pride that comes with creating something meaningful and, potentially, seeing your work published.

How to Join

Interested in joining Write to Recovery? You’re welcome to drop by any Thursday at 2pm to join a session. No prior registration is required—just bring your passion for writing and a willingness to explore your inner world through prose or poetry.

Join us at Medication Recovery and Me, every Monday at 2:30 PM for a supportive space tailored for individuals on medication-assisted recovery from alcohol or drug use. We understand that the journey to recovery can be challenging, which is why we’ve created a safe haven for discussions, learning, and growth. In our community, you’ll find empathy, understanding, and resources to support your path towards healing.

What We Offer:

• Weekly Meetings: Gather with us every Monday at 2:30 PM to dive into discussions on addiction, recovery, and the support available to you.
• Supportive Environment: Connect with a community that understands your journey and offers unwavering support. You’re not alone in this.
• Knowledge Sharing: Learn more about medication-assisted recovery and discover resources to aid you on your path to healing.
• Group Participation: Share your experiences, insights, and challenges with a group that listens and empathizes. Together, we can grow stronger.
• Empowerment: Find encouragement and motivation as we support each other towards a brighter, informed future.

Together, Let’s Navigate Recovery: At Medication Recovery and Me, your journey to understanding and healing is not walked alone. Join our community today and take the first step towards a brighter, empowered future. We look forward to welcoming you into our supportive space.

Take flight with Models of Recovery, where creativity meets camaraderie! Join us every Tuesday at 2:30 PM for a session of model building and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to the hobby, our group offers a welcoming space to explore the meticulous art of AirFix modeling. Let’s dive into the world of model building together!

What We Offer:

• Weekly Sessions: Join us every Tuesday at 2:30 PM for a creative and relaxing experience.
• Connection: Connect with fellow enthusiasts who share your passion for model building.
• Exploration: Dive into the world of AirFix modeling and discover the joy of assembling models, piece by piece.
• Community: Enjoy the camaraderie of our supportive group as we embark on our modeling journeys together.
• Free to Join: Participation in our group is absolutely free! All you need is your enthusiasm and curiosity.

Let’s Build Together: Whether you’re seeking relaxation, concentration, or simply a fun hobby to enjoy, Models of Recovery welcomes you with open arms. Join our community and experience the satisfaction of creating something beautiful, one piece at a time. We can’t wait to build with you!

Thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund we’re on the lookout for a passionate Regional Development Officer to join our dynamic team at East Ayrshire Recovery Hub!  If you’re dedicated to supporting individuals on their recovery journey from alcohol and/or drugs, we want to hear from you!

Position: Regional Development Officer
Location: East Ayrshire Wide (Based in Kilmarnock)
Hours: 35 per week
Salary: £26,000 + Travel Expenses and SVQ3 Financial Contribution
Contract Length: 1 Year
Reporting To: Development Lead

Key Responsibilities:

• Community Engagement
• Initiative Coordination
• Program Development
• Community Support
• Outreach and Awareness
• Recovery-Focused Activities
• Equality and Recovery Support

Qualifications & Experience:

• SVQ 2/3 in Healthcare or Equivalent Qualification (Desirable however partial funding is available)
• Demonstrated Commitment to Supporting Recovery (Desirable)
• Team Collaboration (Essential)
• Community Setting Experience (Essential)
• Communication Proficiency (Essential)
• Understanding of Impact (Essential)
• Autonomous Work and Prioritisation (Essential)

Skills, Experience & Knowledge:

• Previous Demonstrable Experience (Desirable)
• Understanding of Recovery Dynamics (Desirable)
• Commitment to Recovery Support (Essential)
• Experience in Substance Misuse Issues and Lived Experience (Desirable)
• Practical Problem-Solving Skills (Essential)
• IT Proficiency (Essential)
• Stakeholder Relationship Building (Essential)
• Person-Centered Approach (Essential)
• Motivational and Advocacy Skills (Essential)
• Diversity and Inclusion Experience (Desirable)
• Self-Motivated with a Positive Attitude (Essential)

Additional Requirements:

• Geographical Coverage (Essential however travel expenses will be provided)
• Flexible Work Schedule (Essential)
• Full Driving License and Own Transport (Desirable)
• Participation in Weekly Rota System (Essential)
• Protection of Vulnerable Groups Scheme (PVG) Membership (Essential)
• Satisfactory Disclosure (Essential)

To Apply: Click the links below for the full job description and application form.

Job Description – https://eacharecovery.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Development-Officer-Job-Description.docx

Application Form – https://eacharecovery.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Development-Officer-Application-Form.docx

Submit your application to [email protected] by 31st January 2024.

Make a positive impact! Join us in building a community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive in recovery and lead a fulfilling life.  Together, let’s make a difference!

Prioritise Your Well-being!

Welcome to our Health Check Drop-In Sessions at East Ayrshire Recovery Hub, where we’re dedicated to supporting your journey towards optimal health and well-being. Join us every 2nd Thursday from 11 am to 12 pm for personalised health assessments that empower you to make informed choices for a healthier life.

Discover the Benefits:

Weight Management: Gain insights into maintaining a healthy weight tailored to your well-being.

BMI Assessment: Understand your Body Mass Index for a comprehensive view of your health.

Blood Pressure Check: Monitor your blood pressure for enhanced heart health.

Heart Health Assessment: Evaluate key indicators to support a strong and healthy heart.

A team of dedicated professionals is committed to guiding and supporting you, whether you’re focusing on weight management or overall well-being. These drop-in sessions offer valuable insights and expert advice to help you make positive choices for a healthier lifestyle.

Seize the opportunity to prioritize your health! For additional information or inquiries, feel free to drop us a message. Your well-being matters, and we’re here to support you on your path to a vibrant and fulfilling life.

Christmas has come early for East Ayrshire Recovery Hub! We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve secured substantial funding through the National Lottery Cost of Living Support Fund. This exciting development marks a significant step forward in our mission to strengthen the recovery community and address the challenges posed by the cost of living crisis.

How This Funding Makes a Difference:

1. Cost of Living Crisis: The funding allows us to proactively respond to the cost of living crisis affecting individuals in our community. We aim to provide tangible support to ease financial burdens.
2. Service Expansion: With this funding, we’re excited to expand our services throughout rural East Ayrshire. Our goal is to reach more individuals who require recovery support, ensuring that help is accessible where it’s needed most.
3. Community Empowerment: We see this funding as an opportunity to empower our community further. By enhancing our resources and assistance programs, we can make a positive impact on the well-being of those we serve.

Our Pledge to the Community:

• Inclusive Support: We remain committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for everyone on their recovery journey.
• Empowering Lives: This funding strengthens our ability to empower individuals, fostering resilience and well-being within the recovery community.
• Gratitude: A heartfelt thank you to the National Lottery for recognizing the importance of our work. We’re grateful for the support that enables us to create positive change.

As we celebrate this early Christmas gift, we want to extend our warmest wishes to our community. Your support is invaluable, and we’re excited about the positive impact we can achieve together.

Stay tuned for updates on how this funding will enhance our services and contribute to the well-being of our community!

Embrace the Season of Hope and Renewal

As we step into the holiday spirit, East Ayrshire Recovery Hub extends a warm and festive welcome to our community!

Celebrate the Journey: Reflect on the progress made, the resilience shown, and the strength discovered throughout the year. Recovery is a journey, and each step forward is a cause for celebration.

A Season of Support: In the spirit of giving and connection, our hub is here to offer support, understanding, and a sense of community. Whether you’re a familiar face or new to our hub, you’re part of our recovery family.

Peace and Well-being: May this season bring peace to your mind, healing to your heart, and joy to your soul. Embrace the moments of tranquility and self-care, knowing that you’re on a path to well-being.

Looking Ahead: As we bid farewell to the current year, let’s welcome the new one with optimism and hope. The journey continues, and we’re excited to walk alongside you in the chapters yet to unfold.

Festive Hours –

• Christmas Day – Closed
• Boxing Day – 10am to 2pm
• New Years Day – Closed
• 2nd January – 10am to 2pm

Thank you for being part of the East Ayrshire Recovery Hub family. Wishing you a festive season filled with love, connection, and the promise of brighter days ahead.

Happy Holidays and a Prosperous New Year!

Holistic Health Ayrshire Introduces A Support Group for Families Affected by Substance Use, Funded by SFAD

Empowering Families Through Holistic Healing

In a bid to provide comprehensive support for families grappling with the challenges of a loved one’s alcohol or drug use, Holistic Health Ayrshire has launched a new support group generously funded by the Scottish Families Affected by Drugs (SFAD). The initiative aims to create a safe space for families to share experiences, gain insights, and learn effective coping mechanisms.

Dates to Remember:

• Sunday, November 26, 2023 – 12pm
• Sunday, January 7, 2024 – 12pm
• Sunday, January 28, 2024 – 12pm

These dates mark the beginning of a series of gatherings designed to foster a sense of community and healing among families facing the complexities of addiction.

Holistic Healing Approach:

Holistic Health Ayrshire recognises that the impact of substance use extends beyond the individual struggling with addiction. Families often find themselves navigating a challenging emotional landscape, and this support group aims to address their unique needs.

The sessions will feature various holistic healing practices, including meditation techniques, crystal singing bowl/sound baths, and drumming. Participants will have ample time for open discussions, allowing them to connect with others facing similar situations. The overarching goal is to create a supportive network where families can share, learn, and heal together.

Self-Care Tips:

To provide practical tools for self-care, the group will share tips on maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Participants will be guided through meditation techniques to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Crystal singing bowl and sound baths will offer a unique sensory experience, contributing to a sense of tranquility.

Drumming, known for its therapeutic benefits, will be incorporated into the sessions as a means of self-expression and stress relief. The combination of these practices is aimed at promoting a holistic approach to well-being for both individuals and families.

Open Invitation:

Holistic Health Ayrshire extends an open invitation to all families affected by a loved one’s alcohol or drug use to join these empowering sessions. The support group provides a judgment-free environment where participants can share their stories, find solace, and build connections with others who understand their journey.

Attendees are encouraged to bring an open heart, a willingness to engage, and perhaps a favourite mug for a warm cuppa during the group discussions.

Join Holistic Health Ayrshire on the journey to healing and empowerment. Together, we can create a supportive community that fosters resilience, understanding, and hope for families affected by substance use.

Our Recovery College and Hub Volunteers are Gearing Up for Suicide Talk Training!

We are thrilled to announce that our dedicated Hub Volunteers are taking a significant step towards enhancing their skills and knowledge by attending the Suicide Talk Training, an interactive workshop in suicide first aid.

Why this training is so crucial: Globally, someone dies from suicide every 40 seconds, underscoring the urgent need for effective suicide intervention. this training equips participants with the skills to recognise when someone may have thoughts of suicide and, most importantly, empowers them to work with these individuals to create a plan that ensures their immediate safety. This training is a vital step in combatting this critical issue.

Key Features of Suicide Talk Training:

• Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the reasons behind suicidal thoughts and the factors that influence them.
• They will become more adept at recognising signs of someone in crisis and asking for help.
• Through guided practice, participants will learn how to provide guidance and suicide first aid to a person at risk, ensuring that their individual safety needs are met.
• The training covers the key elements of an effective suicide safety plan and teaches how to implement it.
• The value of improving and integrating suicide prevention resources in the community will be explored.
• Participants will be equipped to connect people with support networks within their community.
• The training doesn’t just stop at intervention; it also emphasises crucial aspects of suicide prevention, including life-promotion and self-care.

We are excited to see our volunteers gain this valuable knowledge, and we deeply appreciate their unwavering commitment to enhancing our support services. Their dedication is making a real and lasting difference in our community!

We are excited to share that our very own Kris, our dedicated Communication Coordinator, had the honour of attending the Digital Lifelines Scotland Community of Learning session in Edinburgh. This session is part of a vital initiative, and we are proud to be part of it!

Digital Lifelines Scotland, a program that has been making significant strides in our community, focuses on supporting small, local organisations like ours in extending digital inclusion activities to individuals at risk of drug overdose and their support networks. We understand the critical role digital inclusion plays in reaching out to those who need support and care.

The program offers grants, which have helped organisations like us make a meaningful difference in the lives of people at risk and those who care about them.

The Purpose:

1. To support individuals at risk of drug overdose in becoming digitally included through the efforts of local community organisations.
2. To expand or enhance the ongoing digital inclusion efforts that organisations are already engaged in.

Kris’s participation in the Digital Lifelines Scotland Community of Learning session is a testament to our commitment to digital inclusion and the well-being of those we serve. We believe that digital literacy and inclusion are essential for reaching out to individuals who may be at risk and for providing them with the support they need.

We are grateful for the support from Digital Lifelines Scotland and the opportunity to work together toward a common goal. We look forward to continuing our efforts to make a positive impact on the lives of those at risk of drug overdose and their support networks.

Stay tuned for more updates on our digital inclusion activities and how we are working to create a safer and more connected community for everyone. We are excited about what the future holds and the positive change we can bring about together!

Empowering You to Tackle Rising Energy Costs – Home Energy Scotland Visits

We understand the concerns surrounding the rising energy prices and the impact they have on our daily lives. That’s why we’re excited to announce that Home Energy Scotland will be visiting our hub not once, but twice, to provide you with valuable information and support.

Mark your calendars for these upcoming dates and times:

• Wednesday, 8th November 2023, 2-3pm
• Wednesday, 20th December 2023, 2-3pm
• Wednesday, 10th January 2024, 2-3pm

Home Energy Scotland experts will be available to offer free, impartial advice on a range of topics including:

1. Saving Energy: Learn practical tips and techniques to reduce your energy consumption at home. Discover simple changes you can make that will have a significant impact on your energy bills.
2. Keeping Warm at Home: Discover effective ways to keep your home warm during colder months without breaking the bank. From insulation solutions to heating controls, find out how to create a cosy and energy-efficient living space.
3. Renewable Energy: Explore the possibilities of renewable energy sources for your home. Discover how solar panels, heat pumps, and other green technologies can help you save money while reducing your carbon footprint.
4. Water Waste Reduction: Uncover strategies to cut down on water waste in your household. Learn about water-saving devices, behaviour changes, and other measures that promote efficient water usage.

Financial Support Programs: Home Energy Scotland also provides detailed information on various financial support programs designed to assist individuals facing financial challenges due to the cost of living crisis. These programs include debt assistance schemes, emergency funding options, fuel vouchers, and more. Take advantage of this resourceful list of services that can provide much-needed relief during difficult times.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert knowledge and access valuable support from Home Energy Scotland! Join us at our hub on the specified dates mentioned above or reach out directly for more information.

Let’s tackle the cost of living crisis together!