News / Chandos House
‘If this place closes down, people will die’
Bristol’s only residential addiction treatment centre is facing what directors describe as “the most serious threat to survival in our history”.
The increasingly complex needs of people battling drug or alcohol abuse combined with government cuts means the future of Chandos House is hanging in the balance.
A fundraiser was held at the Redland centre on Tuesday to raise awareness and much-needed funds. Writer and political commentator Will Self was also in attendance to show his ongoing support for Chandos.
is needed now More than ever
Will Self showing his support for Chandos House at an event earlier this year.
Residents shared their stories of recovery in a ‘share-a-thon’ highlighting just what Chandos means to them.
“Before I came here it was hard to show compassion because I didn’t even know what it meant,” said Martin, a Chandos resident.
Fellow resident Darren said: “I felt left out, not part of society and this place has shown me a way back in so it’s very important. This place has given me hope.”
Chandos House needs help to keep its vital service running
Explaining how Chandos has helped him, Rick said “It’s helping me deal with the problems that made me start taking drugs in the first place, it’s one of the best in the country.”
“If this place closes down, people will die,” added Phil, another Chandos resident.
Chandos has a holistic and pioneering approach to overcoming addiction through art and drama therapy, circus skills, boxing, singing and creative writing as well as traditional counselling and psychotherapy.
Chandos House is raising funds to continue its life-saving work
Drama therapist Pippa Ford considered the impact on families and the wider community if Chandos House was unable to continue its work:
“Families would break down, parents would not be with their children potentially and there would be a massive lean on the health and criminal justice system,” she said.
The holistic rehab services at Chandos House give men the chance to turn their lives around
Chandos House welcomes each person irrespective of their faults, flaws or past mistakes, and has seen many of its residents on the road to success and sobriety.
New resident Peter, who has only been in Chandos House a week, explained: “It keeps you safe and puts you on the road to a much better life.”
Cooking up a storm at the fundraiser
Chandos House offers therapy through art to help residents overcome trauma
Tucked away in a quiet, leafy Redland neighbourhood, this is a special place. Yet it is a special place in desperate need of help.
For further information and to donate, please visit: https://localgiving.org/donation/chandos-house-addiction-treatment-centre?emb=n7y2RVxFm9
Read more: ‘It’s given me something I never had and that’s self belief’
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