Finding hope and connection inside Crewe’s ConNEXTions recovery hub

In the heart of Crewe, tucked inside the welcoming walls of St Andrews Church Hall, something extraordinary is happening.

It’s not just about recovery—it’s about rediscovery. 

For the past four years, ConNEXTions, supported by Cheshire East Council’s commissioned drugs and alcohol service provider Change Grow Live (CGL), has been quietly transforming lives, one connection at a time.

This isn’t your typical recovery programme. ConNEXTions offers more than just a path away from addiction—it offers a path back to yourself.

At ConNEXTions, recovery is rooted in community. The hub offers a warm, stigma-free space where people can share their stories, rebuild their confidence, and find strength in solidarity. From arts and crafts to gardening, meditation, writing workshops, and exercise classes, the programme is designed to heal the whole person, not just the addiction.

Founders Sue Bailey and Liz Jenkins from ConNEXTions said:

“The stigma around addiction often leaves people feeling alone,”

“But the truth is, you're not. We offer a safe space where individuals can connect with others who understand the challenges they're facing—and you can see their story, as it’s also part of each of our stories.”

The power of ConNEXTions lies in its people. Take CJ, who had been in and out of recovery for years before finding a home at the hub.

CJ said:

“I found it to be a place where I could go to make friends with people in the same situation. I felt part of a group where there was acceptance and no judgement,”

“Now, I’ve been sober for 20 months. I volunteer, I facilitate SMART meetings, and I still help at ConNEXTions when I can. It’s helped me more than I can say.”

Then there’s Sean, who once stood on the brink of death, drinking 1.5 litres of vodka a day. After detox, he found that quitting was just the beginning.

Sean said:

“That’s where ConNEXTions became a lifeline,”

“It’s a humble drop-in hub, but within those walls is a community of people who understand exactly what it means to fight for your life every single day. This place turns pain into purpose and despair into hope.”

And another member, who joined after a hospital detox in 2024, found the courage to walk into ConNEXTions on a Saturday morning.

“I was nervous, but there was nothing to worry about. This group welcomed me with open arms. The RICE sessions were relaxed, and I could share my worries without judgment. Two years later, I’m now a recovery coach, helping others while staying on my own path.”

Martin, a ConNEXTions member read out a poem ‘From hole to whole’ he had written for a recent graduation event at the hub and said:

“I was alone treading water in booze. Drowning with every gulp, knowing the next could be my last, but not knowing or wanting to stop. I finally started to listen and take notice of all the help, literally being thrown my way.”

ConNEXTions understands that recovery doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why they offer flexible sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 5pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 12 noon. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to give back, there’s a place for you.

Recovery is never easy, but it doesn’t have to be lonely. At ConNEXTions, you’ll find more than support. You’ll find hope, purpose, and a community that cares.

Sean added:

“Every time I walk through the doors, I’m reminded how far I’ve come—and how much farther I can still go. Not alone, but together.”

Visit: 

www.connextions.co.uk 

...or email: 

info@connextions.org.uk

Because recovery isn’t just about quitting, it’s about becoming whole again.

Pictured - Founders Sue Bailey and Liz Jenkins.