Mick's Story

“The only time I was confident enough to come out of the house was when I was taking drugs.”

Mick lives in Dalmellington in Scotland and is recovering from a drug addiction. He’s been helped by The Zone which is based in Dalmellington and carries out a range of activities as well as the recovery group including childcare, youth services as well as providing training and employment opportunities. 

Mick says “I probably don’t know if I would be here if The Zone wasn’t part of my life. I don’t think I would be here.”

The Coalfields Regeneration Trust has worked with Nicola Higgins, the community engagement recovery worker at The Zone for a number of years. The CRT has helped them to access funding and supported them in their work renovating a nearby building to enable them to expand their work.

Nicola says “If it wasn’t for the CRT going through and getting the funding for us this would never have happened.”

As part of the renovation, Mick has been helping to paint and decorate the new building as part of his recovery, which he is now hoping to turn into a new career.

Mick says “I’ve got a great relationship with my kids now. I’m hopeful to go and get a wee job. I just feel that it’s getting better and better and better all the time.” 

To contact The Zone please visit their website.