We are excited to announce our partnership with Acta Community Theatre for a new creative lived experience support group, as part of our Pathways to Recovery Aftercare Service. Our aim is to help individuals in recovery from gambling harms to sustain their recovery and discover new ways to express themselves through the arts.

What is The Long Group?

The Long Group is for people in the Bristol area in recovery from gambling harms. It will also be led by someone with lived experience of gambling harms. The group will give individuals the opportunity to try out a range of art forms, including:

  • photography
  • writing
  • acting and theatre

This approach intends to provide a therapeutic and supportive environment for those in recovery. People can explore new ways of self-expression and connect with others who have shared experiences.

Pathways to Recovery

The Pathways to Recovery Aftercare Service is a new initiative developed by Ara, with the aim of providing a comprehensive support system for individuals in recovery from gambling harms. Our team of experts is committed to helping individuals navigate the challenges of recovery, providing a range of services and support to help sustain recovery over the long-term.

The creative lived experience support group is just one of the new services being offered by Ara as part of the Pathways to Recovery Aftercare Service. By combining evidence-based therapies with innovative approaches to recovery, we are confident that we can help individuals overcome the challenges of recovery and achieve long-term success.

How long is The Long Group?

The Long Group will run for 36 weeks, giving individuals the time and space they need to explore their creativity, build new skills, and connect with others in recovery. At the end of the program, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their work through a performance or exhibition, providing a sense of accomplishment and pride in their journey of recovery.

How to join

Are you interested in joining The Long Group’s creative lived experience support group? Please get in touch with us today! You can reach us by calling 0330 1340 286 or emailing aragamblingservice@recovery4all.co.uk. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each individual we serve, and we look forward to hearing from you.

If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, we encourage you to get in touch with us today and take the first step towards a brighter future!

About Ara Gambling Service

Find out more about Ara Gambling Service and the services we provide:

Get Support – apply online for our free and confidential support and advice services.

Gambling Resources – access our free resources for assessing and evaluating gambling behaviour.

Young People’s Service – educational workshops for young people and the professionals who work with them.

Bet You Can Help – education and practical first aid for gambling harms, aimed at organisations

The Six To Ten Project – support for friends and family affected by gambling harms.