Substance misuse is a pressing issue in Torbay. Figures show that rates for hospital admissions related to alcohol were higher here than nationally in 2023/24. There was also a significant rise in the number of drug misuse deaths in Torbay at the end of the last decade.*
It is a challenge that The Thrive Project in Paignton is only too aware of. The drop-in centre provides a range of services for people in crisis, including its SMART (Self Management and Recovery Training) group, which helps people to manage their drug and alcohol use. The group is run by a former NHS recovery worker and has been held weekly for the last few years.
The SMART Recovery approach focuses on encouraging people to develop tools and techniques to support their recovery. There is an emphasis on affirming the individual’s own control over the choices they make and the goals they set.
One participant commented: “I use SMART on a daily basis, whether it’s looking at my own behaviours, or using the effective tools for life in general. I have learnt a great deal from SMART.”
It is a nationally recognised programme but a large part of its success in Paignton comes from the holistic way that The Thrive Project works with people. As Rachel, who founded the project, says; “no one person has one problem”. While some addiction groups and services operate in isolation, people who come to the SMART group will often also access other activities offered by Thrive. These include community meals and wellbeing groups.
Rachel explains that people struggling with substance misuse can feel a lot of shame and guilt and may become isolated as a result. The Thrive Project offers a place where they feel accepted and part of a wider community. “People need to know that they belong,” says Rachel.
The Thrive Project successfully applied for funding from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) through our small grants application process. The grant of £4,425 will secure the existing SMART group for another 12 months while enabling Thrive to offer an additional weekly session.
The demand is clear – the group has been at capacity for the past 12 months with many on the waiting list, and The Thrive Project also receives a large number of enquiries from other agencies seeking support for their clients. And it works. Those who attend the groups have often reached rock bottom when they arrive, but with the support of SMART they can start to rebuild their lives. This may include re-establishing relationships, finding work or securing accommodation.
Rachel shared the experience of one participant, Mark, who had a 40 year history of drug and alcohol abuse. He had tried residential rehabilitation treatment four times and a number of home detoxes.
Mark has attended the SMART group regularly since its early days, alongside other recovery groups. He has been substance free for four years and is now working in the recovery sector.
*Figures from the Torbay Joint Strategic Needs Assessesment (JSNA) 2023/24
