Addiction recovery in Middlesbrough faces many challenges, with issues like alcohol abuse on Teesside affecting individuals and families alike. Yet for every setback, there are stories of determination and change. This is especially true for Colin Gibson, a man whose personal battle with addiction is now inspiring a new hope for those seeking a fresh start.

From Survival to Support: Colin Gibson’s Story

By his own admission, Colin Gibson’s survival is nothing short of remarkable. Growing up in and out of the care system, he found himself struggling with alcohol abuse on Teesside from his mid-teens. When life became overwhelming, Colin turned to sex work as a way to survive, a struggle openly documented in Channel 5’s “Selling Sex To Survive”.

Colin’s road was never easy. He was even sentenced to 16 months in prison in 2015 after admitting to a serious hoax. At his lowest, homelessness and addiction left him hospitalised in a coma, only to wake up and immediately crave a drink.

Despite all the hardship, everything changed when Colin entered Castle Craig rehabilitation centre in Scotland. That pivotal experience sparked a turning point. Now, after nearly a year of sobriety, Colin is driven by a powerful purpose—to create real change for others living with alcohol or substance abuse.

Why Middlesbrough Needs an Addiction Recovery Centre

A First-Hand Look at Alcohol Abuse on Teesside

Having spent years rebuilding his life, Colin knows first-hand how big the need is on Teesside for addiction recovery resources. During his time living in Middlesbrough, he witnessed the struggles faced by many in the community, who often lacked access to comprehensive support.

“There’s a huge need,” he says, explaining his vision to open a new recovery centre dedicated to addiction recovery in Middlesbrough. The centre wouldn’t just focus on alcohol abuse, but all forms of addiction, including drugs, gambling, pornography, and gaming.

A Place to Heal, Not Just Survive

The planned NE14Addiction hub (pronounced “Anyone for Addiction”) will offer tailored support not only for individuals but families too. It aims to:

• Provide therapy and counselling
• Host community workshops and awareness campaigns
• Spearhead recovery programmes that tackle both the root causes and the realities of addiction

Colin insists that the addiction itself is often a symptom of deeper pain. “It could be grief, isolation, trauma, or a relationship breakdown. Once you get to the core problem, that’s when recovery can truly begin.”

Creating a Ripple of Hope Across Teesside

Empowerment through Real Experience

What makes Colin’s approach distinct is his candour and real-life experience. He speaks openly about his own mistakes, but more importantly, the daily commitment it takes to move forward. “You have to take every day as it comes,” he says. “Ignore the past, ignore the future, and just work on today. That’s the only way recovery works.”

His resolve led him to found NE14Addiction as an online support network, helping people from all walks of life who are affected by addiction. Recognition has already arrived in the form of UK StartUp Award shortlisting, and there’s hope that the new centre will be based in his hometown of Alnwick, with a Middlesbrough site to follow.

Recovery, One Step at a Time

Colin’s next venture is a 320-mile walk from Alnwick to London, aimed at raising awareness about addiction recovery in Middlesbrough and across the UK. He’s also published an e-book, “Road to Recovery: Strength and Hope,” with proceeds supporting NE14Addiction’s services.

How Addiction Recovery in Middlesbrough Can Make A Difference

Comprehensive Support for Lasting Change

The NE14Addiction centre promises more than just treatment. Through its hands-on approach, Colin hopes to start a “ripple effect of hope and empowerment.” The centre envisions:

• Workshops that reduce stigma and educate people about addiction and mental health
• Programmes tailored for both individuals and their families
• Teaching essential strategies for achieving sobriety and maintaining long-term recovery

Learning from Lived Experience

The approach is grounded in real-world understanding. By using lived experience as a foundation, the centre aims to create a more welcoming, non-judgemental space that meets people where they are. “Mistakes happen,” Colin says, “but they don’t have to define your story.”

Facing the Reality of Alcohol Abuse on Teesside

Why Support Matters

Teesside has higher rates of alcohol abuse compared to many other regions, leading to related health and social challenges. That’s why ongoing, community-driven support is vital. Having someone like Colin, who truly understands the daily struggle, can make all the difference for those seeking addiction recovery in Middlesbrough.

Taking Recovery One Day at a Time

Colin’s advice is simple, yet meaningful. Overcoming addiction or alcohol abuse is not about easy fixes, but about making a choice every day. While temptations remain, with the right support, anyone can move towards a brighter, healthier future.

“Through hard work, sobriety and a commitment to change, I’ve rebuilt my life. Now I want to give back and show others that recovery is achievable.”

Source: Gazette Live