Recovery Month celebrated at HMP Aylesbury with sports and community spirit

In honour of Recovery Month this September, the CNWL Substance Misuse Service (SMS) team and Forward Trust who provide psychosocial services at HMP Aylesbury celebrated the success stories of those in recovery from substance use problems.

The highlight of the month was a dedicated sports day, designed to promote togetherness and spread a powerful message: "Recovery is possible, inspires wellbeing, empowers change, and there is hope for everyone."

In a show of community support, Councillor Nidhi Mehta, Mayor of Aylesbury and a local Councillor were invited to attend the event, with Councillor Mehta officially opening the games.

The day featured a variety of inclusive sporting activities aimed at building morale, teamwork, and resilience among participants. Events included:

• Team bowls
• Walking football
• A 5k run
• 5-a-side football

Dudzai Kamonere, MHWB Service Manager, HMP Aylesbury: “This was a great event which was well received by all who participated and those who were cheering on the sidelines.”

The initiative was part of a wider effort to support those on the path to recovery within the prison system, reinforcing the message that positive change is achievable with the right support and encouragement.