Dry January mocktail event went down a treat in Rugby

Damian Rees and colleagues at the Recovery Partnership's Dry Janaury Mocktail event

The event, which was held at The Recovery Partnership offices in Rugby, encouraged staff and guests to try a tasty alcohol-free drink, take away some Dry January freebies, sign up for the challenge and make a healthy start to the New Year.

The Recovery Partnership is a treatment service for people affected by drugs and alcohol and is one of a number of Warwickshire organisations supporting Dry January 2016 including Warwickshire County Council’s Community Safety team and district & borough partners.

Damien Rees, Team Leader at The Recovery Partnership, Rugby, said: “I took up the Dry January pledge as a great way to start off the year.

“The prospect of saving money, shedding some pounds, sleeping better and feeling better sounded like a good New Years resolution!

“I knew there would be over indulgence around Christmas time. I also knew that other friends, family and work colleagues would be quitting alcohol for January too – I like to be a part of what’s going on, so I got involved.

“I have definitely noticed a difference. I have lost some weight and have found myself with more motivation to exercise.

“I would say that I have only had an odd occasion where I have fancied a drink but I’ve just had some water or a green tea instead. I have found myself spending more time with family and more time with friends exercising rather than pub socialising. It’s been good - I feel like my skin is clearer and my sleep has improved.

“I have found the Dry January wristband and hoody a BIG help and always acts as a reminder of the 31 day pledge, although I’m not in a rush to have an alcoholic drink in February. I think Dry January could catch on for other months too!

“The email support from Dry January and the mocktail event we had at work all help me to remain focused too.”

Ann Hirst, Project Administror at The Recovery Partnership said: “The Dry January event held at Rugby was a great success.

“Service users and staff enjoyed tasting various mocktails prepared by Kieran who was fantastic and put on a great show. There was a great atmosphere in the room where the event was held and it was lovely to see our service users enjoying themselves and learning that they can enjoy an alcohol free drink.”