Acorn Recovery Projects has been helping people break free from drug, alcohol, and other addictions since 1997. Over the last three decades, it has utilised the power of lived experience to help people across Greater Manchester and Lancashire work towards lifelong recovery.
As a pioneering LERO, Acorn has a variety of housing options available to help people seeking sustainable recovery to move towards fully independent living. These services include residential rehabilitation, community programmes – and supported housing.
For six years, Acorn Recovery Projects’ supported housing project has been quietly revolutionising the lives of those who need it most. This unique initiative is giving a fresh start to individuals who have faced the toughest barriers to accessing help – people whose lives have been shaped by homelessness, addiction, and involvement in the criminal justice system.
Supported housing provides a safe environment for people who are looking for a place to stay and rebuild their independence following substance misuse and homelessness. Acorn works in close partnership with prison services, probation, local housing and substance misuse providers to make sure that we take the right approach for people’s needs and recovery.
Their innovative and compassionate approach begins with a flexible assessment process that focuses on the individual’s needs, supported by a network of collaborative partnerships – including Lancaster City Council, Manchester City Council, Delphi Medical, Walter Lyon Trust and Rochdale Borough Council.
Acorn’s team understands that lasting change requires more than just housing – it demands holistic care. Using a person-centred approach, they identify past barriers and work with clients to build the skills and resilience needed to maintain their own tenancy. By collaborating with partners, Acorn connects residents to community resources that foster stability and growth.
‘Our goal is not just to provide a roof over someone’s head,’ explains a member of the Acorn team. ‘We’re here to empower people to rebuild their lives and thrive in their communities.’ One shining example of Acorn’s impact is their Manchester project where, as well as high quality housing, residents can access programmes like the dependency emotional attachment programme (DEAP).
DEAP is an intensive therapy course, delivered by professional counsellors, that helps clients confront and heal deep-seated emotional challenges. It supports people in long-term recovery by exploring their personal experiences with addiction and addressing any unresolved emotional or attachment issues. During the 12-week course, individuals develop skills and strategies for maintaining abstinence and building a new life in recovery.
Every property within Acorn’s portfolio has its own identity, designed to cater to the diverse needs of residents. During the intake process, the team carefully matches clients to the most suitable project, taking into account the dynamics of current residents and the resources available in each location. The result is a network of housing solutions where values remain consistent, but support is personalised.
Steven Riley’s story is a testament to the transformative power of Acorn’s approach. ‘I started using drugs and alcohol at 13, beginning with cannabis and moving on to crack and heroin,’ he says. ‘My addiction destroyed my relationships, my health, and my ability to manage a home. I ended up living on the streets, unable to see a way out.’
After years of prison sentences and drug abuse Steven hit rock bottom, and during his last sentence he reached out to Acorn. Upon release, the team provided supported housing, giving him the stability and care he desperately needed.
‘Acorn changed my life,’ he says. ‘I received one-on-one counselling, group therapy, and training courses, all through their programmes. Today, I’m in low-level supported housing, volunteering, and looking forward to a brighter future.’
Acorn’s commitment to empowerment doesn’t stop with housing, however. Over the past two years, eight former residents have transitioned into employment – either with Acorn or one of their partner agencies.
This emphasis on personal growth creates a ripple effect of positive change, not just for individuals but for the communities they serve. It also shows the value of lived experience by empowering and inspiring clients using the insights of people who have had similar life experiences.
Acorn’s dedication to delivering high-quality support is unwavering. Their team’s hard work and belief in the power of community make them a beacon of hope for those in need.
Through compassion, collaboration, and creativity, Acorn proves that change is possible – even for those society has often overlooked.
To find out more about Acorn Recovery Projects, visit acornrecovery.org.uk
Darren Lang is team leader at Acorn Community and Prison Services. Gary Mills is service manager at Acorn Community and Supported Housing