When he was about 40, Keith started to experience work-related stress, which increasingly, saw him turn to alcohol. At first, he didn’t realise what was happening. But the life-changing turning point came when Keith fell down some stairs and fractured both of his shoulders - he hasn’t had a drop of alcohol since.
After his accident, Keith asked his GP for support with his drinking. The Forward Trust was listed as one of the recommended options, and once he began engaging in one-to-one sessions in Forward’s Sittingbourne hub, (part of the Swale Service), Keith progressed to the 12-step programme.
“I found the one-to-one sessions really beneficial. They woke me up by showing me what I had lost, but also what I had to gain. Without the sessions, I wouldn’t have been able to walk into the 12-step programme meetings.
“The staff at Forward were brilliant and so helpful. I found this was because many of Forward’s staff have gone through the recovery process themselves, so they know what it is like.”
After he graduated from the programme, Keith joined ‘Forward Connect’ for weekly guidance throughout his ongoing recovery. He now takes part in these groups every week, where mutual support is offered.
“Since I have found recovery, my head is clearer, and I feel more focused.
“If you’re looking for help or advice, I can’t recommend Forward enough. They are like-minded people who understand that what you’re going through isn’t easy but will do their best to make it easier.”
