Network April 2015

ISSUE 30

NETWORK APRIL 2015

EFTC

TREE PLANTING

THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITIES CONF’

GROWING THE PHOENIX FOREST

the big lunch

CELEBRATING COMMUNIT Y AT PHOENIX

VOYAGE

THE VOYAGE OF RECOVERY RETURNS

CENTRAL LANCS

ONWARDS AND UPWARDS

EDITOR’S LETTER Welcome to April’s edition of Network. This month we’re hearing all about what’s going on around Phoenix and what plans we have for the months ahead.

In this issue:

• • • • • • •

Karen talks Phoenix Roadshows Phoenix at the EFTC Conference Growing the Phoenix Forest Onwards and Upwards in Central Lancs Celebrating Mothers on the Wirral The Big Lunch and..

The Voyage of Recovery Returns Deborah Mackay - Editor

Network is all about sharing news, stories and best practice around the Phoenix Futures Group. For guidance on how to submit your content to Network please see the guidelines below.

Point of contact: Please send all content through to me at deborah.mackay@phoenix-futures.org.uk Summary: By submitting a short summary of your news we will be able to develop your content into a full article or feature. This only needs to be one to two paragraphs.

Article: If you would like to write a full article for Network the word count is approximately 350 words. Think about what you want to share and what the main points are. Keeping wording short and simple will help keep readers engaged.

Photos: It’s great to have photos to accompany news and articles in Network. The best way to send photos is to attach them in an email. When sending photos please include names of those pictured.

To get the best out of your photos (and show off your content) why not try these top tips?

• Lighting: Whichever camera you use lighting is important. Make sure there’s plenty of light indoors or go

outdoors for natural light.

• Keep steady: Use two hands to steady your camera / smartphone and get a good clear image.

• Frame it: Think about what you want in your photo and avoid clutter. If you want to zoom in it’s often best

to move closer rather than rely on the zoom, which can reduce picture quality.

For more tips on getting the best snaps why not search the web? There are plenty of great articles like this from techradar.

Editorial process: All content will be reviewed and edited if needed to fit with the overall tone and theme of the magazine.

Deadline: Please submit content by the 15th of each month for it to be featured in the next issue.

BELEIVE IN BEING THE BEST

Phoenix Push Ups The Phoenix Push Ups is an opportunity to highlight the great work done by our colleagues and volunteers. If there’s some one you’d like to recognise send your ‘push up’ with the name of the person you are pushing up along with their service and they’ll be featured in the monthly Phoenix Push Ups.

BUILDING FUTURES DISCOVER TEAM, HMP PRESTON...

MAXINE PYE, HMP HOLLOWAY...

They rise to every challenge set Maxine offers outstanding care even through difficult times. They and support to the women in our pull together as a team ensuring care and provides consistent and that the service is delivered to an excellent standard, the Recovery Unit effective engagement with them.

Her passion for the role shines is a fantastic example of this. HMP through.

Preston have had a great year, well done guys and thank you for your hard work.

LAUREN BENHAM, HMP PENTONVILLE AND

HMP HOLLOWAY...

TINA MOTLEY , DISCOVER CENTRAL LANCASHIRE...

Tina is a motivation and inspiration to others, who goes above and beyond as a volunteer within community projects.

Lauren was recently promoted to New Community Engagement Officer. She wholeheartedly deserves this promotion.

Since joining Phoenix Futures and the two prison services in Islington she has consistently gone above and beyond her role to ensure effective and innovative support to our clients and has got involved in numerous projects to expand our service.

CARL MARTIN, WIRRAL RESIDENTIAL...

GEMMA MUKADAM, HMP WYMOTT...

Carl has been a volunteer at the Wirral Gemma initiated the TC Residential for about 18 months but has and Recovery Dictionary in just been appointed as the new dedicated support of promoting the night care worker. He’s been thoroughly service, educating others, committed to the service as a volunteer and it is incredibly exciting to see him progress and encouraging change. This joint working captures and into a job that I know he is extremely passionate about… Well Done Carl. illustrates the strengths and skills we have together.

VALUE OUR HISTORY

Phoenix in Focus: The Phoenix Roadshows Monday 13th April will mark the launch of the Phoenix Roadshows, which will be held in London, Glasgow, Sheffield, and Manchester.

Network caught up with CEO Karen Biggs to find out what the roadshows are all about.

Why do we do the Phoenix Roadshows?

The main aim of the Roadshows is to communicate progress that we’ve made against the corporate objectives in the previous year, to thank people, and to identify the focus of the coming year. It’s a way of us reminding people about the corporate plan and our values and beliefs - who we are and why we’re here. It also gives me and the Executive Team an opportunity to meet every member of staff every year, which is really fun.

How do staff benefit from attending the roadshows?

Karen Biggs, CEO

The feedback we get every year is that people really enjoy being able to meet with each other. Whilst people may attend these roadshows within their region they don’t always get chance to get together as a whole group. There’s definitely an opportunity for people to learn from other work that is happening across the country. We also always include time to share practices as its important people take something tangible away from these roadshows.

What changes can staff expect in the coming year?

We’re looking at trying to balance the focus for next year. We know it’s going to be a tough year. We will have a new government, although we don’t know who it’s going to be. We know there’s going to be cuts. There’s going to be lots of retendering, a lot of change in the external world. There are some things that are going to restrict us and there are some things that are going to create opportunities for us.

We want to give a focus to staff and support them. To provide some space in the day for them to think about themselves and their own health and wellbeing. Then there is a new strategy that we’ll be launching, which will hopefully be exciting for people and a real focus for next year. There will be opportunity to learn about some smaller scale pieces of work that I think will really chime with people’s personal motivation for the work that they do.

How do you feel coming into 2015/2016?

I’ve developed and lived with these ideas and plans for a good few months now so I’m really clear about the things that we can achieve next year. There’s some really exciting, ambitious targets within this new plan. The external world is going to feel fairly depressing and challenging, but that’s the time when charities come into their own. That’s when we should be doing what we do. If we identify the right things to be doing with the most marginalised, I think we will feel invigorated as we go through the next year.

Is it going to be a nice lunch?

They’re not coming for the free lunch! If people come away and the only thing they have to comment on is the lunch, then we will have failed in our task.

VALUE OUR HISTORY

Phoenix at the EFTC Conference Sunny Malaga was the setting for this year’s European Federation of Therapeutic Communities (EFTC) conference and was hosted by our Spanish contemporaries, Proyecto Hombre. In true Phoenix style, arrival was eventful with one flight missed, someone with the flu, and others rapidly losing their voices; however the motley crew of 10 remained in good spirits.

This year Phoenix was again dominating the programme with a variety of therapeutic community (TC) presentations including educational and creative perspectives, working with specific/ minority groups, and best practice based on evidence and innovation. We showcased the ECETT programme and some of our new, innovative services including the HMP Preston Drug Recovery Wing and our new medical assisted model at Longyard. In addition to this, some of our more unique Phoenix interventions were discussed with presentations on the Specialist Family Service and our ‘Recovery Through…’ initiatives. Each presentation was well received and feedback suggested they were of a high standard in both style, content and execution, demonstrating our expertise and passion.

Laura Aslan with the winning poster

The content of the conference was certainly thought provoking and aspirational. Many of the old favourites and experts were there to share their wisdom and their stories. The key messages that came from the conference surrounded the importance of having an integrated model and looking at aiding creativity in recovery. Some discussion surrounded motivation and readiness and the importance of assessment when it comes to TC admissions. What was clear at the conference was that there was a feeling of an emerging new generation of professionals, practitioners and leaders in the TC movement. It is exciting to think how Phoenix Futures can be a part of this and help to take our history, knowledge and expertise and drive it forward into a new era.

Outside of the beautiful auditorium conference buildings, the Phoenix team were able to explore a small part of Malaga town. Our experience of the Gala dinner, this time, was not as alarming as in previous years with the traditional Spanish cuisine being quite tasty. We were also treated to some traditional Spanish music and accompanying flamenco dancing which was certainly intriguing. The local fish we sampled in the evenings was truly delicious and this was rounded off with some good conversation, interesting storytelling, and copious laughter.

The Phoenix gang in Malaga

There was a great energy amongst the Phoenix team, which was tangible, and that passion emanated through the presentations and when talking with other professionals. Phoenix’s work was well showcased throughout the conference and one of the Phoenix staff won the prize for the best academic poster. This solidified the dedication, passion and expertise that Phoenix has in the substance misuse and treatment field.

- Laura Aslan Researcher

PASSIONATE ABOUT RECOVERY

Growing the Phoenix Forest Every year Phoenix Futures celebrates our graduates by dedicating a tree to them in the Phoenix Forest. As part of the Phoenix Forest tree planting for 2014, with the help of the Woodland Trust and the John Muir Trust, we planted over 2000 trees in Heartwood in Hertfordshire, and over 250 trees in Glenlude in Scotland.

This year in Scotland we celebrated our 10 year partnership with the John Muir Trust. Through our Recovery Through Nature programme the Trust delivers the John Muir Trust Award, which enables participants to get involed with the natural environment.

To mark the anniversary, staff and service users from Phoenix Futures Scotland and representatives from the John Muir Trust came together for a reception and presentations in the Trust’s Volunteer Centre before beginning the tree planting. 288 trees were planted in total.

“We’re really proud of our partnership with Phoenix Futures,” he said. “It’s been fantastic for the John Muir Trust.

We’ve learned a lot from you – it’s broadened our horizons and helped shape and influence the way we work with others.” - Toby Clark, John Muir Award Scotland Manager After the tree planting event in Heartwood in Hertfordshire in February, CEO Karen Biggs received this letter from The Woodland Trust...

PASSIONATE ABOUT RECOVERY

Onwards and Upwards in Skelsmersdale There are many innovative ways we promote recovery around Phoenix. This month we’re hearing from Senior Group Worker Jessica Woodard from our services in Skelmersdale about their Onwards and Upwards group.

What is the Onwards and upwards group?

The Onwards and Upwards group is for those who are in the early stages of recovery but are abstinent. Guest speakers come in to talk about their journey and share experiences, which gives the group an opportunity to see that recovery in the long term is possible. It’s a chance to learn how people overcome obstacles and get answers to their questions about recovery.

How did the group come into fruition?

We needed something that was suitable for those who had attended Building Futures groups and were ready to move into aftercare, but were still accessing structured group. It’s a transitional group aimed at moving away from structured treatment and into more informal self-motivated recovery based groups.

What makes the group stand out?

It’s the variety and the sharing from people who come in that makes the group stand out. Visible recovery is very powerful. We have found that by facilitating this at Skelmersdale on a weekly basis it inspires people and helps to dispel any myths about mutual aid groups.

What activities have you done through the group?

Earlier in the year we put on a Dry Night Out at our services. This was inspired by a visit to the Brink Dry Night Out in Skelmersdale dry bar in Liverpool where members of the group celebrated the December festivities with a Christmas lunch. The team at Brink gave us some useful insight, which helped us plan our own event.

How does the group celebrate recovery?

The group celebrates recovery in that it is powerful, inspiring, and motivational for all. Each week group members support each other, form new and like-minded friendships, work together to achieve their goals, and give others the empowerment they need to get on the path of recovery.

What are your hopes / aims for the group for 2015?

We hope that the group will continue to grow & develop into a well-established part of recovery in Skelmersdale.

We hope to see participants who attended the group in the early stages come back through and share their journey with new group members showing them that ‘I once sat in your seat’.

PASSIONATE ABOUT RECOVERY

Celebrating Mothers in the Wirral In March our Wirral Residential service celebrated Mothers’ Day with a three course meal for the residents’ families and loved ones. It was a very emotional day for us all. For the residents whom have lost their mums, we held a ceremony where we released balloons to the sky.

This is what one of our service users, Matthew Duffy, had to say about the special day…

As I have only been at the service for three weeks, my Mum was a little wary of coming to the house and ‘being in the way’. Once I explained it was a community event, she was really pleased to come. The food service and the way the tables and room were set up was fabulous. It was great for my mum to see me sober, safe and happy, and part of a real friendly community. It’s the first time in a long time that she can relax knowing I am in a safe, comfortable and supportive environment, where I am preparing for a return to the old ‘me’.

- Melanie Cawley Care Team Worker

Voucher Collection at Phoenix Family Service Last year we had a heart-warming amount of Sainsbury’s vouchers sent to us at the family service from other services and individuals. Thanks to the amount collected we were able to order some lovely outdoor gardening resources.

This year we are collecting again and are saving for outdoor equipment including a brand new sand pit. Every voucher counts so any amount will be appreciated. Sainsbury’s vouchers are up for grabs until the 5th of May and all vouchers need to be with us for no later than the 25th of June. We really appreciate any help with our new project.

Please send vouchers to: Jenny Lyons, National Specialist Family Service 29-31 Collegiate Crescent Broomhall Sheffield S10 2BJ - Jenny Lyons Phoenix Family Service

PASSIONATE ABOUT RECOVERY

The Big Lunch at Phoenix This summer we’re inviting everyone at Phoenix to get involved in The Big Lunch. The Big Lunch is an Eden Project initiative, which aims to bring together people and communities for, well, a big lunch. It’s a ‘simple act of community, friendship, and fun’.

This June we want to join the millions of people across the UK who will be coming together with neighbours to celebrate community with The Big Lunch. Through our service user involvement and confidence building programme, Recovery in the Community, we can offer you and your service users support and guidance to throw your own event.

There are a number of benefits for service users getting involved in The Big Lunch. By being involved in the organisation of the event they will develop skills in communication, team work and planning, which in turn will boost their confidence. The lunch itself is also an opportunity to socialise within our own communities and those of our neighbours.

There are a number of ways your service could get involved in The Big Lunch.

• • •

You could arrange to host it, indoors or in the garden, within your service You could join up with a nearby group who is already doing something You could invite your guests to ‘bring a dish’

The Big Lunch is a great opportunity to reach out to our neighbours and create links between Phoenix and the wider community.

Alongside support from Recovery in the Community, you may find that your local council will help you in the planning of your event. The Big Lunch website gives a list of councils in England and councils in Scotland who are supporting this year’s events.

For more information on how you can get involved in The Big Lunch contact Sandra Sweeney, Project Development Coordinator via email sandra.sweeney@phoenix-futures.org.uk and visit The Big Lunch website, www.thebiglunch.com.

BELIEVE IN BEING THE BEST

Going Green Trees are great: they clean the air, provide oxygen, combat climate change, hold the soil together, provide fruit, and improve our sense of wellbeing.

Most of you know about Recovery Through Nature, our pioneering program in which hundreds (and more recently, thousands) of trees are planted each year by Phoenix service users and staff. A little less known is the number of adult trees we save by using recycled stationery. Since 2012, we’ve saved more than 180 trees by using recycled products. Here’s how.

We have ensured that our list of stationery items available to purchase with Office Depot includes an extensive set of recycled products. They range from copier paper to sticky notes, folders, and boxes.

On average, we save 53 trees every year.

We’re on course to do better than that average in 2015, with 23 trees saved since the beginning of this year.

So the next time you’re buying stationery, please take a second to look up these recycled products. They are very easy to identify on the product list on Connect or on Office Depot website if you order online. Items marked in green on the product list or labelled with have an environmental attribute, whether they’re made with sustainable wood that comes from a managed forest, are partially recycled, or are made entirely of recycled products.

It might not seem like much when you buy those tiny recycled sticky notes, but they all add up to a lot of trees saved at the end of the year.

- Facilities and Procurement

BELIEVE IN BEING THE BEST

Voyage of Recovery Returns The Voyage of Recovery is back. And this year we are using three boats. We’re pleased to announce that we will be offering up to 70 places for staff and service users to embark on the opportunity of a life time.

As in previous years, we are still sailing on the Tectona, a traditional 70ft gaff ketch. The Tectona trips will sail out of Plymouth in September. The lucky voyagers will have the opportunity to sail the beautiful Cornish coast and maybe even visit the Silly Isles.

The second stage of this year’s sailing will take place in and around the Solent area and may include passages to the Channel Islands. These voyages will take place on the Donald Searle, a Ketch Ocean 75, and the Merrilyn, a Schooner Ocean 62. This will be the first year we have sailed with the Rona Trust. We’re sure that the Donald Searle and Merrilyn will provide our clients with an amazing sailing experience.

This year’s legs are: Leg

Dates

Services

Route

Vessel

1

6th – 11th September

Wirral Residential

Plymouth to Plymouth

Tectona

2

13th – 18th September

Sheffield Residential

Plymouth to Plymouth

Tectona

3

20th – 25th September

Hampshire Residential

Plymouth to Plymouth

Tectona

4

4th – 9th October

Wirral, Leicester, Central Lancs Community

Hamble to Hamble

Donald Searle

5

11th – 16th October

Barnsley & Foundation66

Hamble to Hamble

Donald Searle

6

18th - 23rd October

Trafford Young Persons Service

Hamble to Hamble

Merrilyn

For more information please contact Stuart Plant - stuart.plant@phoenix-futures.org.uk