‘Small steps matter’ - New programme for people affected by addiction in Laois

A new 12-week programme is being launched in Laois to help support people and families affected by addiction.

The ARC Project is launching a new community programme alongside Connect Laois and Healthy Ireland which is designed to bring recovery, physical activity, health and connection together.

The new 12-week programme, OnTRACK, is designed to support people in recovery, as well as people and families affected by addiction, to build healthier routines, improve wellbeing, develop confidence and strengthen their connection with their community.

The Addiction, Recovery and Community (ARC) Project is a voluntary and community led initiative based in Laois which supports people impacted by addiction. The group was founded by David Delaney and Michelle Robertson in 2024.

This new programme spearheaded by the group will be delivered at Mill Court Community Centre in Portlaoise, and will provide a welcoming and accessible community setting for participants.

Rather than treating physical health and recovery as separate issues, OnTRACK brings them together in a practical, community-based programme.

Participants will take part in recovery and family recovery sessions alongside community fitness, Couch to 5K, nutrition and health and wellbeing activities.

The ARC Project spokesperson Michelle Robertson said the programme was created from an understanding of what people actually need when trying to make positive changes in their lives.

“We know that recovery is about much more than simply stopping using a substance. It is about rebuilding your life, reconnecting with yourself and other people, finding purpose and looking after your physical and emotional wellbeing.

“OnTRACK gives people a place to start. There is no expectation that participants will arrive already fit, confident or have everything figured out. We want people to come as they are and take the next step from there.”

Ms Robertson said the programme also reflects the importance of community-led support alongside existing addiction services.

“We understand the pressures and constraints that statutory and community services are working under because many of us have experienced those systems ourselves. We know what it is like to be on waiting lists, to experience stigma and to struggle to find the right support at the right time.

“That doesn’t mean we want to replace existing services. Quite the opposite. We want to work alongside them and help fill some of the gaps. We know what we can bring to the table.”

For OnTRACK, the focus is firmly on progress rather than perfection.

“Getting active can be an important part of recovery, but this isn’t about turning people into athletes,” said Michelle.

“It might be someone’s first walk, their first attempt at Couch to 5K, or simply the first time in a long time that they have committed to doing something for themselves.

“Small steps matter. Connection matters. And sometimes having somebody beside you who understands can make all the difference.”

OnTRACK forms part of The ARC Project’s growing programme of community-based recovery initiatives in Laois, which includes recovery coaching, family support, peer-led activities and community events.

Expressions of interest for OnTRACK are now being invited via the website www.thearcproject.ie.