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For many people struggling with addiction, recovery can feel overwhelming and isolating.
However, a support group in Preston is reaching out to encourage more people to join and seek help.
Three men, who do not want to reveal their identities, attend the Cocaine Anonymous (CA) group in Preston.
They have shared their stories in the hope of reaching more people who may be going through something similar.
CA is a free group, where those suffering from addictions of any kind, even alcohol addiction, can join to help with their recovery.
The meetings, described as “supportive and non-judgemental” see people share their own experiences to help others.
However, those who attend the group believe not enough people know it exists, which is why people struggling with addiction may not know where to turn.
A 30-year-old who has been attending the group since October 2023 said he struggled with drugs for years before reaching out to someone who introduced him to the group.
“I expected him to say he went to rehab and had a happy life ever since, but that’s not what he did, he went to Cocaine Anonymous and he introduced me to it
“I’d say this is the most welcome place you’re ever going to walk into.
“You’re going to be terrified – there’s no getting away from that.
“You’re going into a room of strangers and admitting you’re a drug addict or an alcoholic and that’s not easy. All we can do is try.”
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The meetings follow a process of someone sharing their addiction at its worst, what happened, how they found CA and what their life is like now – described as a 12-step process.
People then have a chance to support and help each other, with everyone considered equal.
Each group sees people of all ages, genders and religions and attendance numbers can be anything from 10 people to 30.
A 60-year-old who attends the group has been battling addiction for years. He found himself at “rock bottom” before discovering CA which he said was different to any programmes he had tried before.
He said: “We haven’t got all the answers, but anyone who’s come along and done this, what I’ve done, I’ve not seen anyone fail at this.
“You’re able to see the truth about what you suffer with, not just the problem we have around alcohol and drugs.
“We look at why we start and can’t stop – that obsession. And the chaos that we caused, we have to go and repair that damage. You know, part of the process is laid out there.
“Everyone is different, but uniquely placed is the person who helps them.”
The third member of the group who Blog Preston spoke to, a 29-year-old, often hosts the meetings in North Preston. The man, who has suffered from addiction since he was 14, has been clean for five months now.
“I was afraid to go to the meetings, going there was a big thing anyway.
“I never thought I would’ve done it (hosted the meetings) but now I can’t imagine not doing it.
“It’s something I actually really enjoy doing and look forward to it.”
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By actively participating in CA, all three members admitted that their own recovery is strengthened and their sense of purpose grows by knowing they’re able to help others.
They stressed how welcoming the group is and that recovery is possible.
How to get support
For those seeking support, Cocaine Anonymous meetings are available throughout Preston, or online for those who cannot attend in person. You do not need to book and all meetings are free.
North Preston CA runs on Monday 7:30pm to 9pm at the Church of Ascension.
We Do Recover runs on Tuesday 7:30pm to 9pm at St Lawrence’s Church in Longridge.
Preston CA runs on Wednesday 7:30pm to 9pm at Ashton Methodist Church.
Families of those suffering from addiction can seek help through a support group here.
The helpline number is 08006120225 and you can find more information on the Cocaine Anonymous website.
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