Tell a story

These are real stories from service users who have attended our services

My story

My name is Phil* and I first attended ARCH in January of this year.
I had felt that my use of alcohol was getting out of control and
I needed some help in resolving it. I met with my case worker every fortnight and discussed the type of drinker I was.
With Rosie’s help I discovered that by making some changes to my routines and being mindful of the number of glasses I drank I was in control.
The drinking was as much about habit as about the alcohol.
I now drink about two glasses of wine a day which is a lot less than the bottle or more
a day I used to drink. I also had bereavement issues which we discussed and I am now much happier with my life.
Thank you ARCH.
*Not his real name

My Recovery Journey at ARCH

As I entered the big black door, all I could think was “Here we go again”. I couldn’t believe that I was getting back on this merry-go-round, re-engaging the service I had left six months prior.
However, a lot had happened since then, So upon reflection, no wonder I slipped in my sobriety and started self-medicating with alcohol.
My initial fears and worries soon lifted when I met my key worker at Arch who I knew. We’d always had a very good professional relationship. I didn’t feel like I would have to start the whole trust building/honesty relationship you have to go through with a new key-worker. Which I believe is paramount to gain the most from 1:2:1 sessions. We were both old hands at this, so to speak!
I agreed to start back at the weekly alcohol group meetings and in time move onto the abstinent meetings. The group work helped me revisit helpful topics/tools and reminded me that “I actually enjoy attending groups”. As much for my personal learning, but on some level in helping others. Thorough offering advice/support in hearing my story/journey.
Over the course of my time with Arch, I realised I enjoyed helping others and started to think about a career change. Also to look into volunteering with BoB (Build on Belief). This would help in my recovery, however would allow me to give something back.
Whilst I was at ARCH, I also started attending SMART (Self Management and Recovery Training). This was completely unplanned, however very quickly I realised I’d found my aftercare/mutual support. I tried unsuccessfully to engage with AA, it was not for me.
I also felt that as much as I respected my keyworker l, I think over time I also earned her respect and trust.
Things right now are looking pretty good.

Thankyou ARCH

I would like to thank ARCH for everything they have done for me and are doing for hundreds of others on a daily basis.
They are a massive part of this Community and play a much bigger role than I am sure most people living in Hillingdon are aware of.
ARCH is a life-changing and in some cases life-saving service which I am so proud to have been a part of, to the extent I am looking to volunteer there and see what help I can be to others. I would like to thank everyone involved at the Centre from the bottom of my heart and I hope the amazing work done at ARCH continues for years and years to come.
My deepest thanks.