More than 30 people from Wirral Ways, including staff, volunteers, and people who use the service, travelled to Wolverhampton last weekend to take part in the UK Recovery Walk 2025.
The national event, held in the Wolverhampton for the first time, brought together thousands of people to celebrate recovery and challenge the stigma surrounding addiction. Organised by Faces and Voices of Recovery UK, the annual walk has grown into the largest recovery gathering in Europe, with cities across the UK bidding to host.
A powerful day in Wolverhampton
The day began with a two-mile parade through the city centre. Streets were lined with banners, music, and colour as groups from across the country marched side by side.
In Wolverhampton’s West Park, the parade flowed into the Recovery Village; a festival-style celebration featuring live music, creative workshops, community stalls and activities for families. People shared stories of change, hope and resilience, highlighting the reality that recovery is not only possible, but thriving in communities nationwide.
Speaking at the event, organisers emphasised that the walk is not only a celebration, but a statement: recovery is visible, recovery is happening, and recovery should be celebrated in the same way as other milestones in public health.
Wirral Ways in solidarity
For the Wirral Ways group, the event was an opportunity to show solidarity, celebrate achievements, and bring inspiration back home.
“Walking alongside thousands of others who understand the challenges and triumphs of recovery was incredibly moving,” said one member of the Wirral Ways team. “It was a reminder that no one walks this journey alone.”
The 30-strong delegation from Wirral Ways reflected the wide range of people involved in the service: those accessing treatment, volunteers, and staff working across hubs in Birkenhead, Wallasey, Nightingales and community venues across the peninsula. Their presence was a statement of unity and that recovery is built together.
Last Updated on 16 September 2025