Launched in 2022 with support from the Corra Foundation, RISE (Recovery Intensive Support in the Environment) is based at our Alexandria service in West Dunbartonshire. The RISE Recovery Programme offers flexible, person-centred support for individuals in recovery, helping them sustain tenancies, build confidence and remain connected to their communities. RISE recognises that no two recovery journeys are the same, providing everything from links to rehabilitation services and naloxone training to ongoing emotional and practical support.
When Charlene was referred to RISE, she was staying in the Alexandria service and struggling with alcohol and street Valium. Her life felt chaotic and unstable, and she knew she needed help.
How the RISE Recovery Programme Supported Charlene
From day one, Charlene fully embraced the RISE Recovery Programme. She was introduced to Narcotics Anonymous (NA), where she found comfort and understanding among people who shared similar experiences. Determined to create stability, she worked closely with the RISE team to seek a rehabilitation placement.
Charlene was soon assessed for a place at Jericho Female, a residential rehabilitation centre for women. She began her rehab journey in October 2024 and spent eight weeks working hard on her recovery, supported by regular check-ins and encouragement from RISE staff. In December, she proudly took part in Jericho’s annual recovery play — a highlight made even more meaningful when her 10‑year‑old daughter came to watch.
Although Charlene later chose to leave Jericho due to challenges with the group dynamic, she immediately reached back out to RISE. The team supported her to secure a temporary flat in Clydebank where she could continue her recovery safely in the community. She threw herself into every opportunity available — attending recovery cafés, community events and becoming an active member of her local NA group, where she even chaired meetings and shared her story with others.
RISE also supported Charlene through children’s panels and hearings as she worked towards having more contact with her daughter.
Most recently, Charlene moved into her own permanent home in the Dumbarton area with her dog, Tison. Now nine months clean and sober, she describes this new chapter as life changing.
Charlene says:
I am linked in with RISE. They are amazing. The staff are always there and they never let us down. Boab and Alison are fantastic, and so is Pauline the Assistant Service Manager.I couldn’t have done any of it without them. I was eight months clean and sober on the 10th of July. I couldn’t even get eight days before. I’ve secured my own house with RISE helping me, and they still continue to help me. If it wasn’t for them, I’d probably be dead. I had no hope or future for myself.They have empathy and compassion. I’ve been going through a lot in regard to getting access to my daughter, and if it wasn’t for the support from Alison — taking time out of her day to come along with me to the panel — I wouldn’t have gone because my mental health had taken a wee dip. But I’m getting help for that. I just can’t thank everyone enough for their support. Thank you to all the staff. All the best to you.