Project Free - Two Years of Hope & Transformation - Not Really Here Group - Tameside Radio, Tameside Reporter, Oldham Reporter, Glossop Chronicle

Monday, 8 December 2025 12:48

By Mark Andrews

Project Free is a lived experience recovery organisation that supports adults with alcohol and substance-related offending behaviour across Greater Manchester. By utilising the power of lived experience and credible role models, Project Free provides a unique and empathetic approach to helping individuals on their journey to recovery. The program addresses not only substance misuse but also the underlying issues driving criminal behaviour, offering participants guidance, support, and practical tools for positive change.

The founder’s story is one of profound transformation. From the age of ten, entangled in the care system, followed by years within the criminal justice system from the age of fourteen, culminating in decades of imprisonment, the path was challenging.

Early experimentation led to entrenched drug use by the age of 21, and a long period of reliance on prescribed medications. At 45, a pivotal decision was made to seek genuine recovery. Entering rehabilitation marked the beginning of a new chapter, encompassing detox and comprehensive aftercare.

Twelve months into sustained recovery, a significant opportunity arose, a role within the criminal justice sector with Acorn. This experience paved the way for further involvement in innovative approaches to support those facing similar challenges. The onset of lockdown prompted a shift to online learning, with the founder successfully completing Health and Social Care qualifications, further solidifying their commitment to this field.

Maintaining recovery for over 20 months post-release brought profound personal rewards. Reconnecting with family, witnessing significant milestones like brothers and daughters’ weddings, and nieces’ weddings, reinforced the value of the journey. Yet, a sense of purpose remained, a desire to give back.

Reflecting on the lack of local heroes with lived experience within the community, the founder was driven to act. A passion for supporting individuals leaving prison ignited the creation of Project Free, a Community Interest Company, established two years ago in 2023.

A reconnection with a former drug worker, encountered 25 years prior within the community, proved instrumental. Upon learning of Project Free’s mission, this individual became a dedicated supporter, attending drop-in centres and collaborating with probation and prison services. Drug services provided crucial support by securing venues for events and group sessions focused on addiction recovery and criminal justice. This collaboration demonstrated that, with the right support, hope can be rekindled.

A pivotal moment in Project Free's development came through a mutual friend of the founder, who connected the project with Matthew Kid. Matthew's support proved invaluable, helping to secure crucial funding. Alongside Tom Woodcock and Peter Yarwood, Matthew provided essential oversight and facilitated the holding and raising of resources through his existing company's bank account. His continued support as part of the steering group remains a cornerstone of Project Free's ongoing success.

Throughout the past two years, the project has fostered a strong partnership with Peter Yarwood from Red Rose Recovery, a relationship built on years of shared experience within the system. This collaboration has been pivotal in securing funding and developing Project Free, demonstrating the power of shared values and lived experience.

Project Free is committed to empowering individuals with lived experience by offering volunteer opportunities within the organisation. This not only provides valuable experience but also fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. Expanding its reach beyond Bury, Project Free has established services in Oldham, extending its support to the wider Greater Manchester area.

The project has achieved remarkable outcomes and forged strong links with partner organisations, including Acorn, Calico, and Achieve Action Together. The dedication and lived experience of the Red Rose Recovery team have been invaluable, providing unwavering support to those who have lost hope and are trapped within the criminal justice system.

At the heart of Project Free is a commitment to maintaining personal recovery and demonstrating that a path to a fulfilling life is possible. By sharing their own journeys, the team at Project Free offer a tangible example of hope and transformation, proving that recovery is not just a possibility, but a reality. Just like the team at Red Rose Recovery, Project Free believes in the potential of every individual to find their path to a brighter future.

Project Free is also growing with real passion and commitment, widening its reach beyond criminal justice, substance misuse, and men’s groups. The project is now developing support for women and creating new spaces that focus on mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Expansion is already underway, with a new with a new location opening at The ARC on Robert Street in Manchester on the ninth of January next year, and active conversations taking place with other local authorities. The long-term aim is to have Project Free groups in every borough of Greater Manchester, creating a network that offers hope, belonging, and practical support to those who need it. This expansion reflects the same core belief that has guided the work from the beginning. Everyone deserves support, community, and the chance to rebuild a life with purpose.

Last Friday (5^th December), we visited Primrose Community Centre in Oldham organised by the team from Project Free, and witnessed deep and powerful conversations from people with lived experience, currently on their journey to recovery and wellbeing. There were many organisations there also offering support.

We’ll be broadcasting a special hour this Sunday 14^th December between 12pm-1pm with interviews from some of the people who open up about their personal journey where alcohol and drugs have affected their lives.

Mark Andrews will be hosting the show on 103.6FM Tameside Radio. You can also listen live online via https://www.notreallyheremedia.com/player/

If you’d like to know more information on Project Free visit https://redroserecovery.org.uk/project-free/