Finding my way through recovery

As part of Recovery Month, Dan, one of our Ambassadors, shares their recovery journey and reflects on how being an Ambassador supports their ongoing growth.

“My name is Dan, and I’m a grateful and hopeful recovering addict. Today, I’m proud to call myself a Waythrough Ambassador with the County Durham Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services (CDDARS). My journey here hasn’t been straightforward. I carry lived experience of substance use, ongoing recovery, and mental health struggles, but I believe that’s exactly what allows me to connect deeply with others walking a similar path.

Not so long ago, I was a Waythrough service user myself. Back then, I couldn’t imagine living a life free from substances. But today, I’ve been sober for 11 months. Something I know I couldn’t have achieved alone. Recovery is rarely a solo journey; it’s built on support, compassion, and hope.

I began volunteering in June 2025, and though I’m still relatively new, I’ve been welcomed with open arms. From the start, I felt like I belonged and that my story had value. The training and support have been first class, giving me the confidence to step into my role fully. Day to day, I spend time meeting clients and leading groups in the Recovery Academy Durham (RAD) programme. Early on, there was a lot of training and shadowing, which made sure I could step into sessions feeling ready and supported. Now, each day brings new opportunities to encourage others and share what I’ve learned on my own recovery journey.

The main reason I chose to volunteer with Waythrough is simple: to give back. I received so much support from the organisation in my own recovery journey, and I knew I wanted to be part of it in return. Completing the RAD 12-week programme gave me a powerful insight into myself and my recovery. It provided the tools and skills I needed to build a stronger foundation; one I continue to rely on every day. Volunteering four half-days a week now gives me a real sense of purpose and routine. It’s more than just helping others. It’s also a daily reminder of my own commitment to recovery.

Volunteering with Waythrough gives me a deep sense of purpose, and I’m proud to be part of the organisation. It has helped me rebuild my self-worth and self-esteem, and each week I feel myself becoming more confident. I also learn something new every single day, whether from training, colleagues, or the clients themselves. Most importantly, being part of Waythrough strengthens both my recovery and my mental health. Each day, I’m living in recovery, and volunteering helps me practice the five ways to wellbeing: giving, connecting, being active, taking notice, and learning. These small, daily actions don’t just support me. They remind me of how far I’ve come and how much more is possible.

One of my proudest moments was getting my first client. That moment felt like such a vote of confidence from my supervisor (who, by the way, is absolutely brilliant). It was a huge milestone, not just because of the responsibility, but because it showed me that my lived experience has real value. Being in recovery myself means I can empathise deeply with what clients are going through. What I once thought was my biggest weakness has actually become my greatest strength.

I feel that the biggest impact I’ve made is simply by showing up as myself – someone in recovery, walking alongside others. My lived experience means I can meet people where they are, with empathy and understanding. For some clients, it makes a difference just knowing that I’ve been where they are and that recovery is possible. I’ve also been able to support people in practical ways, whether through groups at the Recovery Academy Durham or one-to-one conversations. Sometimes it’s the small things like listening, encouraging, sharing part of my own journey, that create the biggest shift. I know that by giving back, I’m not only helping others but also breaking down the stigma around addiction and showing that change is possible.

This role has helped me grow in so many ways. Volunteering has boosted my confidence, self-worth, and self-esteem, and I feel more comfortable in myself than I ever have before. I’ve learned that my recovery is not just about staying sober, but about building a new way of living — one that includes purpose, connection, and hope. I’ve also learned that addiction doesn’t define a person. Every client has their own story, their own battles, and their own strengths. Seeing that every day reminds me of my own resilience and keeps me grounded in gratitude. Perhaps the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that what I once saw as my greatest weakness (my addiction) has become my greatest strength, because it allows me to use my experiences to help others.

If someone is thinking about starting this journey, my advice is simple: go for it. The benefits are endless. You’ll receive regular supervision and support, gain new skills, and have the chance to give back. You’ll discover how your existing and transferable skills can make a real difference. You’ll grow in confidence, self-worth, and self-esteem, and you’ll meet new people who understand and encourage you. For many, it can be a stepping stone to employment, and for everyone, it’s an opportunity to strengthen recovery and improve mental health.

Volunteering changed my life. It gave me purpose, community, and hope. And if it can do that for me, it can do the same for you.”

Want to volunteer for us or learn more about our Ambassador Programme? Email volunteering@waythrough.org.uk to find out more.