Meet The Team
Our team work tirelessly throughout the year to put on a fantastic festival for the community. Most of people on the committee are either in recovery themselves or work in the field. Allow them to introduce themselves.
Clare
Chair
Hi, I'm Clare. I've been coming to the Recovery Festival since it began in 2013 and have been on the committee for the past 5 years. The Recovery Festival changed the way I engaged with my work and with the world around me and within me. I am inspired by being with people so full of hope, compassion, creative energy and openness to change.
I am a retired doctor; I previously worked as a GP with the Homeless Health Service and Bristol Specialist Drug and Alcohol Service. I was involved in pioneering the Bristol Wet Clinics, which offer medical care, advice and support to street drinkers and others whose complex needs cannot be met by more conventional services.
Hayley
Treasurer
I'm Hayley and I am a retired Financial Controller. I previously worked for a number of large businesses before starting and running my own niche consultancy firm in Bristol.
Now I enjoy giving back by volunteering.
I chose the Recovery Festival because it is resourced solely via volunteers and the idea of celebrating success from addiction is a great advert for those thinking of going into recovery.
2022 is my first year as Treasurer. I am excited to be part of this vibrant and dedicated committee, ensuring the festival grows bigger and better each year.
Sophie
Entertainment
Hi, my name’s Sophie and I work with volunteers and creative arts groups at Bristol Drugs Project.
I’ve been involved in the Recovery Festival since 2015, having brought Rising Voices Recovery Choir, Bristol Recovery Orchestra and Stepladder Drama to perform each year.
I joined the committee in 2021 and am excited about getting more people in to perform at next year’s festival and to fly the flag of creativity in recovery!
Jason
Secretary
Hello, my name is Jason and I am an Assistant Psychologist at the Bristol Specialised Drug and Alcohol Service. My research interests are focused on individuals who are making positive life changes in recovery. I have recently joined the committee as this year's Secretary. It's a real privilege for me to be a part of this space and I am excited to bring the Recovery Festival into fruition!
Heather
Event manager
My name is Heather and I work at The Nelson Trust as the senior key worker for the Criminal Justice Substance Misuse Team.
The Nelson Trust works with women to provide a trauma informed, gender responsive service to ensure a holistic approach is provided to the support available for a woman and her family. The Nelson Trust work from a strength based, collaborative approach that views how women’s strengths, interests, and personal experience can empower and influence lasting change.
I am new to the committee and am excited to be a part of this amazing event that celebrates recovery. I have previously attended the Recovery Festival in its various venues in different capacities and have loved seeing how this community has evolved to continued to celebrate the power of connection.
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