I came to StreetScene as a resident in April 2016. I manged to secure the funding for residential rehab, whilst on a Drug Rehabilitation Requirement from the court system. I spent nearly 20yrs in a cycle of addiction and became caught up in a revolving door of convictions and self-abuse. I knew, I had to make some changes and address my drug addiction. I would firmly say I had hit rock bottom. I arrived at Allington House and were greeted from a member of staff. I instantly felt at ease and knew, I was in a safe place. I resided in the house for 4 months. (An extra month for a certain behaviour I had to address). All the staff are highly trained professionals and are caring, genuine and understanding. During my stay we worked on ourselves and had weekly Group Therapy and Relapse Prevention and were allocated to a trained counsellor for one-two-one session. We were encouraged to follow a 12 Step Recovery programme and to keep an open mind. To attend meetings of our choice regularly and to understand the steps etc. Once a week, we would also have “Chemsex Group” which is primarily focused on the LGBTQ+ community. This is a safe space for individuals to share experiences, which they may have felt ashamed or embarrassed of and not be able to share in regular group therapy. Each week would be a different topic such as: Chemsex, Risk taking and safe sex, BBV’S , Multiple sexual partners, Self esteem, Self-worth, Homophobia and Rejection, Consequences of Behaviours, Sex work, Slamming and substance misuse, Transgender issues, Gay Dating Sites and repeated behaviours, Unhealthy relationships, I strongly believe that the “Chemsex Group” played a huge part of my begin of recovery. I would not have had the confidence to share this stuff knowing it could possibly make other group members feel uncomfortable with it! I finished treatment with StreetScene in October 2016 and decided to return to London. Once home - it was a matter of fight or flight. I felt a mixture of emotions and a sense of vulnerability. Although, I had been given the tools to keeps myself safe and remain in recovery. I knew the only way of surviving in recovery was to keep attending NA meetings regularly and much as possible. I through myself into NA and attended meetings every day until I was 2 years abstinent. (This kept me in check and safe from returning to my old life). I continue to attend meetings on a regular basis and follow a programme to my best ability. This has been a huge support to me, and I am nearly 5yrs Abstinent from all substances. I could never have got this far. If it were not for the professional support from StreetScene. My life today is different. It has not been a walk in the park. However, today I have peace of mind. I am working on achieving all the things my addiction stopped me doing. I am not where I want to be in life, but I am defiantly where I need to be in recovery. I have so much gratitude for StreetScene & Narcotics Anonymous. Thank you (S. 2021)