29 Jul 2026
The Essex Recovery Festival once again brought people together from across the region for a weekend of connection, celebration and hope, highlighting the positive impact of recovery and the strength of community.
Following last year's attendance of 35 people from East Kent, this year's event saw an incredible 67 clients and people in recovery travel from East Kent, Thurrock, Wickford, Southend and the Day Programme to take part in the festival.
From the moment the group arrived, there was a real sense of excitement. The Forward Trust stall was set up with handmade jewellery and information leaflets, while music, laughter and a welcoming atmosphere filled the site.
The festival offered a wide variety of activities to suit everyone, including recovery workshops, forest talks, bread-making, zip wire, climbing wall, archery, a pool party, sauna and cold-water baths. Live entertainment kept everyone entertained throughout the day, with performances from bands, comedian Dapper Laughs and dance act Baby D. As evening approached, the silent disco in the forest and campfire gatherings gave people the opportunity to relax, connect and celebrate together.
The festival was a powerful reminder that recovery is about far more than abstinence, it is about rediscovering joy, building relationships and creating lasting memories with others who understand the journey.
Reflecting on the experience, Chantel Gell, Recovery Navigator, said:
"It didn't matter where anyone was in their own journey—whether they were one day into recovery or much further along—we were all there together, united in recovery. Seeing everyone dancing, laughing and simply being themselves was incredibly moving. It was a powerful reminder that recovery can be joyful and full of life."
The event left a lasting impression on everyone who attended, with many saying they wished they could have stayed for the entire weekend to enjoy even more of the supportive atmosphere and activities on offer.
The Forward Trust is proud to support opportunities like the Essex Recovery Festival, where people can celebrate recovery, build confidence, strengthen connections and see first-hand that recovery is something to be celebrated.
Here's to another unforgettable festival in 2027!
