A READING-based charity that helps men recovering from drink and drug addiction by providing supported move-on accommodation has been given a fresh funding boost.
Hope & Vision will be able to fund a management coaching and training programme that will empower staff to deliver the best possible support to clients, and it’s all thanks to additional support from The John Sykes Foundation.
Launched in 2020, by former addict Tony Attwood and Peter Ross, the judge who had sentenced him, the charity was born out of Mr Attwood’s experiences. He spent 15 years in the criminal justice system, and the pair have a unique understanding of the cycle of addiction.
It offers safe and secure homes to men in Reading who have successfully left treatment for addiction.
By providing support accommodation, the men they work with can break the cycle of addiction and offending, which causes harm to so many.
Since its launch, it has undergone a rapid expansion, doubling the number of service users year-on- year: three years ago they were supporting two residents and now they help 15.
John Sykes, founder and chair of trustees of the foundation, said: “By funding this programme, we are not only investing in the leadership of Hope & Vision to develop a range of skills, but also to help the residents achieve their dreams and aspirations who are striving to make a positive impact in their lives and the lives of others.
“Together, they can unlock their potential and Tony – with the support of those around him – can inspire them to achieve greatness and break the cycle of addiction.”
Mr Attwell said it had been exciting to see the charity grow over the past 12 months, but it also meant there was a need for increased skills among his team.
“Everyone benefits from training and coaching, and a funding investment such as this ensures we set even greater goals for the future,” he said.
“I’m grateful to John and the Trustees of the John Sykes Foundation for this support, which is immeasurable in its impact, since the investment in our staff, in turn, helps our whole community.”
For more details on Hope and Vision Communities, log on to: www.hopeandvision.org.uk
For more details on the John Sykes Foundation and how it helps Reading, log on to: www.johnsykesfoundation.org
