South Ayrshire Connecting Recovery Event

On Friday 30^th August 2024, South Ayrshire Alcohol Partnership (ADP) held their 'Connecting Recovery Event'. This event aimed to bring people together, raise awareness of support available for individuals and families affected by alcohol or drugs, and to remember those we have sadly lost to alcohol, drugs, or suicide.

The start of the event saw the launch of the ADP's new drop-in venue Compass, which brings together a wide range of services under one roof to reduce barriers for people looking to access support for their alcohol or drug use, and related issues. Members of the community were invited to drop-in to Compass (James Street, Ayr) between 9.30am and 12pm to find out more about the services and support available.

Councillor Hugh Hunter, Health and Social Care Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire said, "Compass is a fantastic new resource for South Ayrshire, it is the definition of partnership working. It brings services and support together in one place to support members of our community rather than individuals having to seek support from various locations and multiple services."

The second part of the day saw communities coming together to remember those we have lost to alcohol, drugs, or suicide at our Annual Flower Walk. The local Flower Walk is an annual activity which takes place in Ayr as part of International Overdose Awareness Day.  By holding this event, the people of South Ayrshire are joining themselves to a global movement for understanding, compassion, and change.

Gary Hoey, ADP Chair said "The Flower Walk is an opportunity to invite members of the community to come and stand in solidarity with families and friends who have lost a loved one due to alcohol, drugs, or suicide. With the international theme for 2024 being, "Together we can", we are highlighting the strength of coming together and standing in support of those connected to the tragedy of overdose."

Wallace Tower in Ayr is also lit up purple every year to raise awareness of overdose and to remember those we have lost.

The final part of the day was a celebration of individual and family recovery as RecoveryAyr, the local grassroots recovery charity, launched their new community venue @48.  The family friendly afternoon offered a range of free activities including live music, balloon modelling, Owl Magic, alternative therapies, creativity, information stalls and much more.

James Dysart, RecoveryAyr Chair said, "the launch of @48 brings to life the long term vision of our members, volunteers, and Trustees to create a vibrant and thriving family friendly venue in the heart of Ayr which enriches and enhances the whole community.  @48 is a celebration of individual and family recovery which offers alcohol and drug free social activities, along with opportunities for volunteering, training, and development".