City to host parade celebrating recovering addicts

The national Recovery Walk is held in a different town or city each year

Wolverhampton has been chosen to host its first parade to celebrate people recovering from addiction.

In a public vote, thousands backed the city's bid for the 2025 Recovery Walk, to be held in West Park on 13 September.

The annual event will also include a gathering of people who have struggled with drugs or alcohol, including their friends and families.

Annemarie Wardm from organiser FAVOR UK, said the walk "makes recovery visible, fosters hope, and unites us in a shared mission of compassion and change".

Wolverhampton's bid was led by The Good Shepherd and Wolverhampton Voluntary and Community Action's Service User Involvement Team.

The city council and the Recovery Near You organisation were also partners.

The bid demonstrated "passion and dedication", Ms Ward said, and reflected the city's commitment to breaking down stigma surrounding addiction.

"This is an incredible opportunity to showcase the strength, resilience, and unity of the recovery community in Wolverhampton and beyond," she said.

Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, cabinet member for adults and wellbeing at City of Wolverhampton Council, said the walk would highlight the local commitment to supporting people in recovery.

"We see this event as a vital step in our ongoing efforts to support recovery and resilience in our communities," she said.