"Given the tools to rebuild my life."

Upon on arrival to the Dame Carol Detoxification Service, I was very intoxicated and somewhat anxious.  I had to remain in my room until the alcohol was out of my system.   The staff were really kind and helpful as I was very unstable on my feet.   They looked after me whilst I sobered up. 

When I was allowed out of my room, I met the staff and other residents and very quickly became friendly and felt very welcomed. 

I was expecting the experience to be somewhat daunting before I arrived.  However, pleasantly it was completely the opposite.   All the members of staff are very professional, friendly and treated me as an individual.  I could not have hoped for a better experience.  

Furthermore, I have made some wonderful friends and sharing their experiences has really helped me on my own journey.  

The food was fantastic, the chef Nimrod (Nemo) is a lovely man and a brilliant cook.   All of the Nurses and Doctor Gale have been fantastic.  I could list every member of staff.  I particularly bonded with Kerry, Hazel, Warren, Alan and Ester.  

I am a dog lover and I am really grateful that Nicky  - The Clinical Lead was really kind and brought her lovely dog in.  The rooms are hotel standard.  The facilities are fantastic.   With film nights, Games nights.  Also space to do my Art. The garden is also beautiful.  

I have had a great and very worth while experience and feel so much healthier within the last two weeks.   I would advise anybody with addiction problems to try and get a place here.  

The activities such as meditation, acupuncture, breathing skills and the group meetings lead to a perfect toolset for recovery.

Finally, I would say I am sad to leave the friends that I have made but I am convinced without this programme, I was stuck in a rut.  Now, I feel I have been given the tools to rebuild my life.