Breaking Down Barriers: ITV News Highlights Middlesbrough’s Support Group for Ethnic Minorities
Recovery Connections is proud to be featured in a recent ITV News report by Katie Cole, shining a spotlight on our monthly recovery group for people from ethnic minority communities in Middlesbrough.
The report explores some of the unique challenges faced by people from these communities, when seeking support. For many, stigma, shame and fear of judgement can become significant barriers to reaching out for help.
Our monthly group, hosted by Coach, Jawaad, was created to provide a safe, welcoming space where people can connect with others who understand their experiences and feel supported in their recovery journey.
As CEO Dot Smith explains:
“What we know is that often people from minority ethnic communities don’t want to come into mainstream services, so this group is perfect.”
“We recognise that we don’t always have the answers or experience. The real strength of the group comes from people supporting others who share similar cultural backgrounds and experiences. It’s about creating a safe, trusted, community-led space where people feel understood, and that’s why it’s already making such a difference.”
Jawaad also highlights the importance of peer support:
“People that you’ll see in the rooms, similar to myself, we’ve experienced it all so we’re not going to judge. When you come into a room and it’s a safe space, and you share, you’ll be met with other people who have similar experiences.”
One attendee also spoke openly about the challenges that still exist within some communities:
“We’ve got a big problem in the Asian community. But it’s all hush hush. They don’t want to let it out, for embarrassment, and shame to the family. There is a solution out there, there is help.”
At Recovery Connections, we believe that recovery should be accessible to everyone. By creating inclusive spaces where people feel heard, understood and accepted, we can help break down barriers and ensure that nobody has to face addiction alone.
