30 Oct 2026
Hosted at the stunning Merchant Adventurer’s Hall in York, the event welcomed graduates of The Bridges and other Forward recovery services, lived experience peer mentors, staff, supporters, and community partners from across the region. Together, they enjoyed an evening of entertainment, fundraising, and reflection on the life-changing impact of recovery support.
Guests had the opportunity to enjoy food and refreshments, take part in a raffle, and visit information stalls showcasing the work of The Bridges and the wider services delivered by The Forward Trust. Attendees also met members of the fundraising team to learn more about how donations, partnerships, and community support help strengthen recovery services and create new opportunities for those rebuilding their lives.
For more than 22 years, The Bridges has provided specialist residential treatment for people experiencing addiction to drugs and alcohol. The service has built a strong reputation both regionally and nationally for delivering safe, clinically effective support that helps individuals achieve lasting recovery.
Swipe through our selection of photos from Friends of The Bridges (Hull, October 2026)
The centrepiece of the evening was a lively quiz competition, which saw teams test their knowledge in a friendly contest. However, some of the most memorable moments came from hearing first-hand recovery stories from people connected to The Bridges.
Their experiences offered powerful reminders that recovery is possible and highlighted the importance of community support in helping people overcome challenges, rebuild confidence, and move forward with their lives.
Funds raised through the event will help Friends of The Bridges continue to enhance opportunities available to residents. This includes supporting wellbeing activities, educational opportunities, community engagement initiatives, and experiences that contribute to personal growth, confidence, and social inclusion.
The success of the event was made possible by the dedication and enthusiasm of graduates, lived experience peer mentors, staff, volunteers, supporters, and everyone who attended. Their generosity helped create a memorable evening while raising valuable funds to support people on their recovery journey.
Dean Cussons, Treatment Lead and Clinical Lead at The Bridges, said:
"Events like this show what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose. Every contribution helps create opportunities that support recovery, wellbeing and inclusion, while reinforcing the message that nobody has to face their journey alone."
Friends of The Bridges would like to thank everyone who donated, volunteered, attended, or supported the event. Together, they are helping to build a stronger community and create opportunities that enable more people to thrive in recovery.
Find out more about our work
