A highlight of the event, which took place on 10 November at the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, was the Client Achievement Awards, which celebrate the people DHI has supported to move towards brighter futures.
"It was a wonderful evening and a moving reminder of why we do what we do," said Rosie Phillips, Chief Executive of DHI. "Hearing people speak about their achievements brings home what the right support can make possible, alongside their own courage and hard work.
"It's what drives us to keep finding better ways to help people build on their strengths and take control of their lives. I'm incredibly proud of everyone whose achievements we celebrated, and grateful to our staff, peers and volunteers who support people along the way."
Speakers took the opportunity to dispel myths about problematic drug and alcohol use and reduce the stigma that many people seeking support still face.
Kate, a resident at DHI's Burlington House Bath-based supported housing service, won the Distance Travelled Award in recognition of her resilience and the progress she has made.
"Part of why I'm happy to accept the award is to help reduce the stigma surrounding alcohol issues. It affects so many people, yet we still don't talk about it,” said Kate.
When Kate arrived at Burlington House, she was physically dependent on alcohol and completed a detox. She has been alcohol free since September 2024 and is now studying psychology though the Open University and volunteers supporting others in her local community.
"I'm in a completely different place now from when I arrived at DHI," said Kate. "I'm achieving my goals, learning new things and building a future for myself.
Moving moment
Guests watched the music video Please Stay, performed by Horizons Choir and filmed at Bath Forum, featuring members of DHI's Bereavement Through Addiction group and Families and Carers Group.
Jenny, who lost her daughter to a drug overdose, introduced the film. "It felt very important to be open about ourselves and our loved ones, to say their names and describe a little of our pain," said Jenny. "We wanted to reduce shame and stigma while supporting DHI, which has been enormously accepting and supportive of us."
The event also shone a spotlight on the support that DHI provides for young people and their families. Parent Keryn joined Substance Use Worker Tom Evans on stage to talk about the help she and her son received through DHI's Wiltshire-wide Connect YP service.
"Tom understood what was really going on in terms of drugs and the pressures young people face in their communities," said Keryn. "Most importantly, he took the time to listen."
Connect YP client Ryan won the David Miell Award for Personal Achievement. Ryan's mum described the difficulties her son had faced since being diagnosed with a brain tumour in childhood, and how the service had helped him find different ways of coping with the challenges he continues to face.
Martin Buckland, Chief Executive of local business Marlin Communications, which sponsored the overall event, said, "Attending the Awards is always an emotional experience. It's amazing to see what the clients achieve. What DHI does is spectacular. The need is so great, and they respond with flexibility and innovation."
The Contribution to the Community Award was sponsored by property management company Touchstone. "We were proud to sponsor this award," said Sarah Lawes, Marketing and Sales Manager. "For us, turning lives around means providing hope and space for individuals to reflect and take steps towards their recovery goals."
Get news from Developing Health & Independence in your inbox. See our privacy policy.
