On a warm, sunny Friday, the community came alive as local residents and professionals gathered to celebrate Recovery from addiction in Slough. Organised by START (Slough Treatment Advice and Recovery Team), Peer Mentors and Volunteers, the event opened its doors, to over 60 guests offering an engaging line-up of guests and Service Users, insightful tours, and opportunities to experience workshops and ask questions about treatment and medication.
The resounding success of the day reflected not only careful planning and passion to improve lives but also the enduring spirit of the service’s vibrant team of recovery professionals.
The Open Day’s success was evident from the moment the first visitors arrived, greeted with warm smiles and a palpable sense of enthusiasm. START’s goal was clear; to showcase all that our local Turning Point service has to offer, while fostering a sense of unity and pride. Staff and Peer Mentors dedicated countless hours in preparation, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone in attendance.
The event’s inclusive nature meant that people of all backgrounds in Health and Social Care found something to pique their interest. From informative displays highlighting partner services in the Slough borough to the powerful stories shared by Service Users’ recovery journey from alcohol and substance use. Guests spoke of the importance of openness, sharing, and growing together, and the huge role that staff had played in their recovery journey. The Slough Public Health Lead Jyoti Singh spoke of her pride in the service provision.
The Regional Head of Operations, Eoin Bolger, and START Operations Manager, Alison Finlay, took a moment to share some inspiring stats around recovery in Slough as they have the highest number of clients achieving recovery in Nationwide , as well as presenting Peer Mentor with their accredited training completion certificates and recognising the importance of their potential role in the future of Turning Point nationwide.
Guided tours were available for all visitors. For those who preferred a more relaxed experience, they could meander through the beautifully maintained gardens, lovingly cared for by Service Users and workers. Information stalls were set up in the garden for; AA, NA, SMART Recovery, IPS, Community Calm, Thames Valley Police, Sexual Health Service and you could even get a Fibroscan.
A feedback station was set up near the main entrance, inviting attendees to share their thoughts and suggestions for future events. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the event’s organisation, inclusiveness, and the genuine warmth extended by Turning Point Team Members. Several visitors remarked on the value of having a dedicated day where community partners could connect, learn, and collaborate. Others wrote;
“Second to none experience, staff welcoming and knowledgeable”, while another included, “Fab networking experience”, and among a great many other comments, “Such a warm and welcoming service!”
Importantly, the Open Day also served as a springboard for ongoing involvement. The service reported an increase in new sign-ups, and several visitors expressed interest in volunteering or participating in future initiatives and for the service in general.
As the event drew to a close, attendees departed with smiles, conversations lingering, and a collective sense of pride in what had been accomplished. In an era where digital connection often supersedes face-to-face interaction, the Open Day demonstrated the enduring value of gathering together in real life. It reminded all who attended that community is built not just through shared space, but through shared experience, kindness, and a willingness to welcome one another.