Bristol Drugs Project (BDP) is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Creative Communities initiative with a special gala event. Over the past decade, Creative Communities has played a crucial role in supporting individuals recovering from drug and alcohol addiction through the arts. The program, which includes the Bristol Recovery Orchestra and Rising Voices Choir, has helped break down the stigma around addiction while offering a safe space for participants to heal through creative expression. The upcoming gala, now sold out, will showcase performances from the groups that have become central to this community-based recovery initiative.
Paul Jennings, a member of the Rising Voices Choir, shared his personal journey of recovery through music. After struggling with addiction for years, Jennings found that singing offered him both grounding and healing. “It’s the fellowship I value,” he said in an article published in BBC. His participation in the choir, supported by BDP, helped him rebuild his life, reconnect with his children, and maintain sobriety. Maya Ellis, another participant, echoed similar sentiments. The 22-year-old student rediscovered her love for music by joining the Bristol Recovery Orchestra, finding it instrumental in her recovery process. “Music can have a profound effect on your mental and emotional state,” she explained.
Creative Communities provides free weekly group sessions for those affected by substance use. These sessions, led by professional artists and supported by trained BDP staff, help individuals rebuild self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and create meaningful connections with others. BDP has been a pillar of the Bristol community for 38 years, offering a wide range of services aimed at harm reduction and support for recovery. With its commitment to inclusivity and challenging stigma, BDP continues to be a vital force for positive change in the lives of those battling addiction.
Learn more about the Creative Communities (UK; October 2024)
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