Babs Gallimore – Community Ally Award
For nearly eight years, Babs Gallimore has been a cornerstone of Wirral’s recovery community. Her journey with Wirral Ways began from a deeply personal place — after losing her son to alcohol addiction, she channelled her grief into a mission to help others. What began as an act of healing has become a lifeline for countless families and individuals across the area.
Babs founded Life is a Gift, a peer-led support network for people affected by someone else’s substance use. The group offers a safe, understanding space where families and friends can connect, share their experiences, and begin to heal together. Babs’ empathetic approach has helped people navigate some of the hardest moments of their lives, giving them tools, hope, and a renewed sense of community.
Recognising emerging local challenges, Babs went on to create a new group dedicated to families affected by ketamine use — one of the first of its kind on Wirral. Her awareness of changing drug trends and her willingness to step forward to fill gaps in support have made a significant impact, giving people a place to turn at a time when awareness and early intervention are vital.
Babs continually expands her knowledge through training in recovery, addiction, and mental health. She applies this learning in every aspect of her volunteering, ensuring that the support she provides is informed, compassionate, and empowering. Her drive to keep learning reflects her belief that understanding is key to helping others rebuild their lives.
Earlier this year, Babs’ calm and decisive actions saved a life. When a person she was supporting covered themselves in petrol during a mental health crisis, she responded quickly and compassionately, preventing a tragedy and ensuring that the individual received the right care and support. That person is now thriving — a powerful testament to Babs’ instinct, bravery, and humanity.
Through her work, Babs has helped countless people find hope, connection, and recovery. She has strengthened Wirral’s community response to addiction, built networks of peer support, and inspired others to step forward and make a difference.
Babs Gallimore exemplifies what it means to be a true community ally. Her story is one of courage, compassion, and lasting impact — transforming personal loss into collective strength. Wirral is a stronger, more compassionate place because of her.
Kerry Taverner – Innovator in Recovery Award
For more than a decade, Kerry has been a driving force at the Spider Project, helping thousands of people across Wirral to build healthier, more fulfilling lives. Her approach is rooted in creativity, inclusion, and innovation — finding imaginative ways to support people in recovery and improve mental health through art, movement, food, and community.
Kerry leads by example, organising and delivering more than 40 creative and wellbeing activities each week alongside a dedicated team. Her work extends far beyond day-to-day sessions; she brings energy, originality, and passion to everything she does. From art projects like community mosaics and large-scale Jackson Pollock-inspired murals to practical cookery classes and nutrition groups, Kerry uses creativity as a tool for empowerment and healing.
Her impact also extends to physical wellbeing. Kerry has encouraged countless members to take their first steps toward exercise, supporting people who never believed they could complete a 5K run. She has run group and one-to-one gym sessions, giving members the confidence to use equipment safely and build their fitness as part of their recovery journey.
Kerry’s vision has brought to life a range of inspiring community events. She self-developed and managed major creative showcases such as an exhibition at the Williamson Art Gallery and the Giant Flowers installation at Birkenhead Market — both powerful examples of art transforming public spaces and perceptions. Her Mad Hatter’s Tea Party brought volunteers and members together for an inclusive celebration of creativity and connection, while Proud to Be Me, a week-long event she founded, shines a light on diversity, identity, and pride within the recovery community. Through workshops, talks, and creative sessions, the event empowers people to celebrate who they are and what they’ve achieved.
Kerry’s commitment to making every person feel included and valued has helped shape Spider Project’s reputation as a vibrant, welcoming, and forward-thinking space for recovery. Her work continues to motivate people to rediscover joy, confidence, and self-belief — using creativity as a bridge to wellbeing and community.
Kerry embodies the heart of creative recovery. Her innovation, compassion, and drive have transformed lives and communities, making Wirral a more connected, inclusive, and inspiring place for everyone on their journey of recovery.
Damien Prescott – Innovator in Recovery Award
Damien’s journey in recovery and his professional work have made a lasting impact on countless lives across Wirral. Known for his compassion, dedication, and tireless commitment, Damien puts everything he has into helping others find their own path to recovery. His work inspires both colleagues and service users alike, reflecting his belief that recovery is not just about change, but about growth, connection, and hope.
A driving force behind Wirral Ways’ Discovery Academy, Damien played a key role in shaping what has become one of the service’s most transformative programmes. His involvement went far beyond coordination — he invested significant time and energy into building, running, and delivering a community rehab model that places people at the centre of their recovery.
Through his leadership and empathy, Damien ensures that every participant feels supported before, during, and after their time in the Academy. He understands that recovery is a continuous journey, and he goes above and beyond to make sure service users are never alone in that process.
Damien’s work has helped establish the Discovery Academy as a cornerstone of Wirral’s recovery offer, providing structure, purpose, and belonging for those seeking to rebuild their lives. His approach has influenced not only the success of the programme but also the wider culture at Wirral Ways — one rooted in compassion, empowerment, and genuine care.
His lived experience, combined with his professional expertise, allows him to connect deeply with those he supports. Service users consistently describe feeling seen, valued, and motivated under his guidance.
Damien’s outstanding contribution to recovery goes far beyond his role — it’s a reflection of who he is. His compassion, resilience, and dedication have helped shape Wirral Ways into the inclusive, inspiring community it is today. The Discovery Academy stands as a testament to his vision and his unwavering commitment to helping others discover their potential.
Sharon Orford – Inspiration Through Creativity Award
Sharon’s journey is one of strength, creativity, and compassion. After facing a challenging period in her life that led to alcohol use following redundancy from her role as a craft shop manager, she made the courageous decision to seek support and begin her recovery. Since joining Spider Project in 2022, Sharon has transformed her life — moving from member to dedicated volunteer, using her passion for creativity to inspire others on their own recovery journeys.
Sharon leads Spider Project’s Fibre Arts Group, where she creates a warm, inclusive, and encouraging space for members to learn, connect, and express themselves. She shares her craft skills — from sewing and knitting to clothing repair — and helps participants build confidence through creativity. Her sessions are about far more than the craft itself; they provide structure, purpose, and a sense of belonging for everyone involved.
Beyond the group, Sharon has become an active voice for recovery in the community. She has represented Spider Project at events including Wirral Pride, helping to raise awareness and show that recovery can be creative, joyful, and empowering. Her ability to share her story openly and positively has helped reduce stigma and inspire others to take their first steps toward change.
Sharon is known for her warmth, patience, and encouragement. She makes every person feel welcome, helping even the most reserved members find confidence and self-expression through art. Her inclusive approach has helped many people rediscover forgotten skills, learn new ones, and grow in self-belief. She also supports members to step beyond their comfort zones — including taking part in drama performances — helping them to experience the power of creativity in recovery.
Sharon embodies what the Inspiration Through Creativity award stands for. Through her kindness, creativity, and lived experience, she has become a source of hope and encouragement for others. Her journey from recovery to volunteer leadership is a powerful example of how art can heal, connect, and inspire — both for the individual and the wider recovery community.
Darius Karcz – Journey of Hope Award
Darius’s recovery journey is a remarkable example of courage, determination, and hope. As the first Polish service user to complete the CGL/Wirral Ways Detox programme at Birchwood, Darius has not only transformed his own life but has also become a powerful advocate for others in the community.
Before seeking support, Darius was drinking up to one litre of Jack Daniel’s a day. Recognising that his alcohol use was taking control of his life, he made the brave decision to enter detox and begin his recovery journey. Since completing the programme, he has remained alcohol-free and has rebuilt his confidence, health, and independence.
What makes Darius’s story so inspiring is his openness and willingness to share his experience with others. He has spoken publicly about his journey — including on the Wirral Multicultural Organisation (WMO) website and social media — using his real name, image, and story to show others that recovery is possible.
Darius has become an active advocate for sobriety, engaging with members of the BAME community and encouraging them to access support. His honesty and courage have helped to challenge stigma, build trust, and break down cultural and language barriers that can often prevent people from seeking help.
Through his visibility and advocacy, Darius has given hope to others who may feel isolated or fearful about reaching out. He has shown that recovery support is inclusive, compassionate, and accessible to everyone — regardless of background or language. His story has already encouraged others within the Polish and wider ethnic communities to explore recovery services and attend meetings such as AA.
Darius has also reintegrated into work and continues to share his message wherever he can, acting as a positive role model for others who may be struggling.
Darius’s journey embodies courage, transformation, and leadership. By breaking through fear and stigma, he has not only changed his own life but has opened doors for others to follow. His advocacy and openness have made a lasting impact on Wirral’s recovery community, proving that recovery knows no boundaries and that hope truly can inspire change.
David Ashley – New Beginnings Award
David’s recovery journey is one of resilience, courage, and community spirit. Since joining Wirral Ways, he has made outstanding progress — not only in his own recovery but in his commitment to helping others on their journeys too. Despite facing the challenges of living in hostel accommodation, David has remained steadfast in his recovery, showing daily dedication and strength.
David is an active and valued member of the Wirral recovery community. He regularly engages with multiple services, demonstrating a genuine commitment to his wellbeing and personal growth. His openness about his experiences has been instrumental in shaping how services understand and respond to the needs of people in recovery.
As part of his advocacy work, David has contributed meaningfully to the Combatting Drugs Partnership subgroups, particularly the Anti-Stigma Forum. By sharing his lived experience, he has helped professionals, partners, and community members gain a real insight into the realities of addiction and recovery. His voice has been essential in helping to challenge stigma, influence change, and ensure that people with lived experience remain at the heart of local decision-making.
David’s consistency, positivity, and willingness to engage make him a true role model within the recovery community. His kindness and encouragement toward others in the hostel and in groups have inspired many to stay hopeful and motivated. Through his advocacy and peer support, he helps others believe that recovery is not only possible but sustainable.
David embodies the power of lived experience in driving change. His courage to speak up, his dedication to helping others, and his active involvement in local initiatives make him an inspiration to both peers and professionals. His journey stands as a reminder that recovery is strengthened through connection, compassion, and community.
Tony Cleary – Outstanding Professional Contribution Award
Tony is a dedicated and compassionate Street Outreach Worker with Wirral Ways, whose impact across the local community has been exceptional. With many years of experience working in both the recovery and homelessness sectors, Tony has built a reputation as a trusted, knowledgeable, and down-to-earth professional who always puts people first.
Tony’s role focuses on supporting some of the most vulnerable and hardest-to-reach individuals in Wirral. His approachable manner and calm, respectful approach allow him to build meaningful connections with people who may otherwise be reluctant to engage with services. Through his consistent presence and genuine care, Tony helps individuals take the first steps toward stability, safety, and recovery.
He works tirelessly to strengthen relationships between Wirral Ways and community partners — from local missions and park rangers to council services and waste management teams. These connections are vital in ensuring that people experiencing homelessness are supported from multiple angles, with agencies working together to meet complex needs.
Tony’s compassion and persistence have helped countless people access the support they need, whether that’s housing, treatment, or simply someone to listen. His ability to meet people where they are, without judgement, has built trust among those who often feel forgotten or overlooked. Colleagues describe him as a “font of knowledge” — someone who combines professional skill with lived understanding of what it takes to make lasting change.
Tony’s work exemplifies the heart of Wirral Ways’ mission — compassion in action. His calm nature, practical wisdom, and unwavering commitment make a real difference every day to those experiencing homelessness and recovery challenges. Through his efforts, countless people have found hope, connection, and a pathway toward a better future.
Kate McKenna – Peer Champion Award
Kate McKenna is an exceptional Peer Champion whose journey reflects courage, compassion, and transformation. Currently in recovery herself, Kate has not only achieved remarkable personal milestones — including becoming prescription-free and approaching positive discharge — but has also dedicated herself to empowering others through her volunteer work with Wirral Ways. Her energy, authenticity, and kindness have made her a trusted and inspirational figure across the recovery community.
Kate volunteers across multiple areas of Wirral Ways, including the Outreach Team and as a Service User Representative. Her role involves engaging with people on the streets, offering harm reduction advice, and connecting individuals with the help they need. She approaches every interaction with empathy and warmth, creating a sense of trust that encourages even the most hesitant people to take their first step toward recovery.
Beyond outreach, Kate has played a leading role in transforming community spaces. She developed and now maintains the garden projects at Nightingales and the Price Street Hub, turning once plain areas into vibrant, welcoming environments that promote wellbeing, connection, and pride. Her creativity and leadership have helped make these spaces symbols of recovery and renewal.
Kate’s enthusiasm doesn’t stop there. She’s helped strengthen physical and emotional wellbeing within the service by supporting activities such as the gym and yoga sessions — encouraging others to join in, build confidence, and experience the positive impact of movement and mindfulness.
Kate’s involvement reaches deep into Wirral’s recovery network. She has supported countless people in their treatment journeys, running her own peer-led groups and offering one-to-one encouragement to those in need. Her advocacy for Buvidal — and her openness about her own experiences with it — has helped break down stigma and reassure others exploring treatment options.
Her unwavering commitment to others, combined with her own success in recovery, has made Kate an influential and inspiring role model. Colleagues and service users alike describe her as proactive, caring, and endlessly positive — someone who “oozes enthusiasm” and will “walk miles to reach someone in need.”
Kate continues to build on her experience, with aspirations to progress into a paid Keyworker role in the future. Her goal is to expand the support she offers to others and continue shaping recovery services from both a professional and lived-experience perspective. Kate McKenna embodies the very best of what it means to be a Peer Champion. Through her compassion, creativity, and leadership, she has become a cornerstone of Wirral’s recovery community. Her work continues to transform spaces, inspire people, and prove that recovery is not only possible but powerful — especially when driven by someone who leads with heart, humility, and hope.
Lesley Lee – Peer Champion Award
Les first joined the Spider Project in 2016 as part of his own recovery journey. He immersed himself in a wide range of sessions — from Peer Mentoring and Understanding Mental Health to Drama and Creative Writing — using these opportunities to rebuild confidence, purpose, and connection. Over time, Les not only found stability and fulfilment in recovery but also developed a strong desire to give back and help others do the same.
Recognising his warmth, empathy, and natural ability to support others, the Spider Project team encouraged Les to complete Connector Training — a programme designed to help volunteers bridge the gap for people new to recovery. Through this, Les developed his skills in peer support, communication, and mentoring, becoming a crucial first point of contact for new members joining the service.
Today, Les is the friendly, welcoming face of the Spider Project front desk. His positive attitude and calm, reassuring presence immediately put people at ease, particularly those arriving anxious or uncertain about starting their journey. Every Saturday, he goes above and beyond by giving up his time to keep the project open for members who find weekends particularly difficult. Les spends countless hours listening, supporting, and offering company to some of Spider’s most isolated participants, ensuring that no one feels alone.
Les’s dedication extends well beyond the building. He regularly represents Spider at public events — including Pride and Spider on Tour — where he engages with the community to raise awareness about recovery, resilience, and the mental health benefits of creative connection. His ability to speak authentically about his own experience makes him a powerful ambassador for the project, helping to reduce stigma and inspire others to reach out for support.
Staff describe Les as “an exemplar of what a volunteer looks like.” He is reliable, compassionate, and deeply committed to Spider’s values, always offering support and encouragement to new volunteers as they begin their own journeys.
Les embodies the very best of what recovery and volunteering can achieve. His kindness, consistency, and dedication make him a cornerstone of the Spider Project community. Without Les, Spider would undoubtedly be a less colourful, inclusive, and welcoming place. He is proof that recovery isn’t just about rebuilding your own life — it’s about helping others find their way too.
Recoverist Podcast – Together We Thrive Award
The Recoverist Podcast was born from the Lived Experience Group, created with a vision to share authentic stories of recovery and to bridge the gap between lived experience and professional insight. What began as a local idea has evolved into an innovative and influential project with a global reach, amplifying voices that often go unheard and sparking meaningful conversations about recovery, hope, and change.
Hosted superbly by Dan, the podcast captures the true spirit of collaboration and coproduction. Each episode brings together a diverse range of guests — from professionals working in health, social care, and recovery services to people sharing their own lived experiences of addiction and transformation. The conversations are raw, honest, and deeply human, offering both information and inspiration for listeners at every stage of recovery.
The project has become a platform where recovery is celebrated in all its forms. By blending professional perspectives with first-hand experience, it breaks down barriers and challenges stigma, creating an open dialogue that promotes understanding and connection.
Since its launch, the Recoverist Podcast has reached audiences across the world, engaging listeners who relate to its themes of resilience, hope, and community. It has helped people feel seen and supported, showing that recovery is not just possible but powerful when led by those who have lived it. The podcast has also strengthened partnerships between services, professionals, and people in recovery — demonstrating what true co-production can achieve.
The Recoverist Podcast stands as a shining example of what happens when lived experience leads the way. Through collaboration, creativity, and authenticity, it continues to provide hope, inspiration, and real conversations that make a lasting impact — locally, nationally, and globally.
Last Updated on 26 May 2026