A one-time heroin user from Oldham who now acts as an inspirational support worker to hundreds of people trying to kick the habit has been nominated for a top government award.
Super volunteer Stephen Rowley has been recognised for his unique, gut busting approach to rehabilitation in the national Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards, which honour people who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to get others off drugs.
The 36-year-old helped to specially design an exercise programme that has seen recovering users take part in mountain bike treks, rock climbing expeditions and other outdoor pursuits as a way beating their addictions.
He has also put in more than 1,600 hours of unpaid overtime running special work- shops and support sessions for particularly vulnerable service users.
Stephen Samuels, volunteering and mentoring coordinator, who nominated Stephen for the award, said: “This nomination is recognition of the tremendous work Stephen has done, and continues to do, with service users in Oldham. “He has put his heart and soul into helping other people beat their addictions because he knows just what a difference it can make. “He is available to his clients 24/7 and just continues to amaze us with his commitment and drive to find new ways of helping people turn their lives around. “Due to his commitment Oldham’s service users have been able to gain access to a level of support and activities previously out of their reach.”
One service user who’s life was turned around by Stephen said: “Stephen has helped me to realise there is a whole life out there waiting for me. “He’s always available and willing to take time out to talk and help you through the roughest times. He has changed my life.”
The Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards winners will be announce in November.
