Bristol-based organisation Sober Wolf has been awarded a grant of £10,000 through Bristol City Council’s Sparking Social Action in Recovery programme. The programme supports people with lived experience of addiction recovery to take positive social action that benefits others in recovery and their wider communities.
Founded and led by people with lived experience, Sober Wolf uses boxing-inspired fitness and peer support to help people build confidence, improve wellbeing and strengthen their recovery. Through welcoming, non-judgemental sessions, participants are supported to develop healthy routines, connect with others and take positive steps forward.
The funding will support a two-year project delivered in partnership with the Nelson Trust Bristol Women’s Centre. Sober Wolf will run 48 fortnightly women-only recovery fitness sessions, creating a safe and supportive space for women affected by substance misuse, trauma, domestic abuse, homelessness, mental ill-health and social exclusion.
Led by a female facilitator with lived experience of recovery, the sessions will be trauma-informed and tailored to participants’ individual needs. Alongside improving physical health and wellbeing, women will be supported to build confidence, develop supportive relationships and access wider opportunities within their communities.
“Recovery is about more than overcoming addiction. It’s about rebuilding confidence, finding purpose and reconnecting with people. This funding will help more women access safe, supportive spaces where they can improve their wellbeing, develop new skills and realise their potential.“
Rich Donlan, Recovery Fitness Director, Sober Wolf
The grant will also help create pathways into leadership and employment. Three operational Directors and up to six participants will gain qualifications, including Level 2 Gym Instructor, safeguarding and first-aid training, with opportunities to gain paid supervised delivery experience. Funding will also support equipment, insurance and other essential costs, helping to strengthen Sober Wolf’s long-term sustainability.
Through this project, more women will be supported to rebuild their confidence, strengthen their recovery and become active contributors within their communities.
If you are a charity, voluntary or community organisation based and working in the West of England and are looking for funding to support your work, then we may be able to help.