CDDARS Recovery Graduation 2026
As part of Recovery Month, County Durham Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services (CDDARS) hosted its first external Recovery Graduation on Thursday 24 September.
Held at the historic Redhills Miners Hall in Durham City, the event celebrated people who had successfully completed the Recovery Academy Durham (RAD) and Women’s Recovery Academy Durham (WRAD).
The RAD and WRAD are 12-week recovery programmes designed for people who are abstinent from drugs or alcohol and looking to build a strong foundation for their future. Through a combination of group sessions, practical skills, peer support and personal development, participants are supported to sustain their recovery and build meaningful lives within their communities.
Taking a holistic approach to recovery, the programmes focus on areas such as wellbeing, confidence, connection and healthy relationships. For many participants, taking part in the academy opens the door to new opportunities, interests and goals, helping them to move forward with greater confidence after their time in treatment.
The graduation ceremony brought together graduates, family members, friends and staff to recognise the commitment, determination and hard work shown throughout their recovery journeys. Graduates were presented with certificates to mark their achievement and received a small gift bag containing items to support and remind them of the progress they have made.
The event provided an opportunity not only to celebrate individual success, but also to recognise the strength, resilience and dedication demonstrated by everyone who completed the programme.
Danny Mulholland, Sustained Recovery Manager said “Every graduate here today has overcome challenges, embraced change, and demonstrated remarkable courage. Your achievements are a testament to your hard work and commitment to recovery. Thank you to each and every graduate for inspiring us with your journey. We are incredibly proud of you all.”
Everyone at County Durham Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services would like to congratulate this year’s graduates on their achievements and wish them every success for the future. We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished and look forward to seeing them continue to thrive in their recovery and beyond.