Student support
Pioneers of student recovery support
Being at university can be tricky enough, but being in recovery while studying can feel really, really tough.
That’s why, since 2017, we’ve been pioneering Collegiate Recovery Programmes (CRPs) in the UK, starting with Teesside University and since expanding to the University of Sunderland, while supporting developments in other universities beyond the north east.
So if you’re a student looking for support, or a university looking to learn more, we’re here to help.
What is a Collegiate Recovery Programme?
Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) are here to help students and staff who are working toward recovery—whether from substance use, alcohol, or behavioral addictions—while still thriving in college or university.
CRPs foster welcoming, supportive spaces right on campus where people in recovery can feel safe, encouraged, and celebrated as part of the campus community.
The help we offer
The help we offer
We can support you as a student in a number of ways, in a way that fits around your lectures and learning and which understands your life.
This includes:
- On-Campus Support: Our staff are present at Teesside and Sunderland universities, providing direct support to students in recovery, and to anyone who wants to address their drinking or drug use.
- Weekly Online Meetings: Every Wednesday, we host a free online support group for students in recovery from substance use or behavioural addictions. It’s a safe space to connect, share, and support each other.
- Recovery Friendly Pledge: We’ve developed a simple pledge to help universities create recovery-friendly environments. This includes commitments to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and provide dedicated recovery spaces on campus.
- Collegiate Recovery UK: In 2024 we launched the UK’s first dedicated Collegiate Recovery platform. The website contains a Toolkit designed by CRP experts from around the world, which can be used to guide anybody interested in starting a CRP.
Why helping students with their recovery matters
Research indicates that students in CRPs perform better academically and have higher retention rates than their peers. By embedding recovery support into university life, we not only aid individual students but also foster inclusive, supportive campus communities.
Say hello
Whether you’re a student seeking support or a university staff member interested in establishing a CRP, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about our programmes and how to bring recovery support to your campus.
Free online support for students every week
Every Wednesday, our Students in Recovery Leads host a free, online support group for any student who identifies as being in recovery from alcohol or drug use, or any behavioural issue, including gambling, pornography, gaming, and more. Feel free to drop in, leave your camera and name off for now, and ask a question to our friendly, Lived Experience staff.
