Norwich drugs charity marks Recovery Month 

Christian drugs, alcohol, and mental health issues charity, The Matthew Project, will mark Recovery Month in late September with a series of hope-filled community events.

Recovery Month is a national observance that shines a light on the strength of individuals overcoming substance misuse and mental health challenges. This year, The Matthew Project invites the public to take part in three unique events in Norwich that showcase the power of lived experience and the importance of community support.
 
Stories of Hope Community Day
Saturday, September 20, 12-4pm – The Matthew Project, 70-80 Oak Street, Norwich NR3 3AQ.

A vibrant, family-friendly celebration featuring live music, storytelling, creative workshops, and games. Performers include poet Stuart Webb and storyteller and puppeteer Sam Webber. Both artists will be doing live performances, unique puppet making and writing workshops. There will be music from a range of performers; Pedro Danger, TMP Singers, Cara Knox, Larry Rouse, Rackheath Youth Theatre, The Last Sentinel and Matty Shindig. This community event highlights the stories of those in recovery and the positive difference The Matthew Project has made in the community.

One of the featured performers, Matty Shindig, shares his story: “For over 30 years, addiction shaped every corner of my life. My disease changed faces many times - different substances, different coping mechanisms - but the result was always the same: destruction. A year ago, it brought me to my knees. I was alone, afraid, homeless. I had lost almost everything - my health, my profession, financial independence, relationships with friends and family, and ultimately, my sense of self. I had become a shadow of the person I once was.

“It was during this darkest chapter that someone gently suggested I reach out to The Matthew Project. I was hesitant, gripped by fear and overwhelmed by guilt. Walking through those doors was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. But it was also the most important.

“At The Matthew Project, I found patience when I couldn’t be patient with myself. The staff saw beyond the chaos and brokenness - I was met with compassion, not judgment. Through their Recovery Support Programme, and the encouragement of fellow members who had walked similar paths, I slowly began to heal.

“Recovery hasn’t been easy. It’s taken honesty, vulnerability, and strength I didn’t know I had. But today, I stand as a recovering addict with nearly a full year of sobriety - October 16th will mark that milestone! I’m rebuilding my life day by day - with gratitude, clarity and a deep sense of purpose. The Matthew Project helped me step out of a dark, lonely place I had come to accept as normal. They helped me believe I was worth saving.”

Free event, open to all ages. Bring a picnic rug or chair.
 
Soirée of Stories
Saturday, September 20, 6.30-9.30pm – The Matthew Project, 70-80 Oak Street, Norwich NR3 3AQ.
Adults only, £15pp (all money raised goes towards The Matthew Project’s vital work)

An intimate evening of spoken word, poetry, and personal testimony co-hosted by Toast Poetry. Performers include Jody Lee the skinny poet, poet Sarah Brassington, and live acoustic music from Not a Horse. The Soirée of Stories offers a reflective space to hear powerful narratives from individuals whose recovery journeys have shaped their lives and communities.
 
Finding Hope Together: Remembrance Service
Thursday, September 25, 7.30pm – Norwich Cathedral, South Transept, all welcome

A gentle and moving service to honour those lost to addiction and mental health struggles. This event provides space for remembrance, reflection, and collective healing, reminding us that hope can be found even in grief.

“Recovery Month is a time to celebrate courage, connection, and our remarkable ability to change,” said Rachel Chapman, CEO at The Matthew Project. “These events are open to everyone - whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply want to stand in solidarity with your community.”

For more information about the events visit: matthewproject.org/whats-on