Joe started drinking after his mother died when he was just 8 years old.  He’s now 26.  His mother’s death led to his father leaving home and Joe left to fend for himself.    

Aged 11, excluded from schools, Joe somehow slipped the net and started working on the trawlers gutting fish.  A can of beer stolen from a shop started his alcohol abuse, and he became increasingly dependent, feeding on the need to ‘forget’.

Joe accessed the help of Aspire Mentoring three years ago.  Doctors had told him he had just months to live if he didn’t deal with his alcohol and other substance misuse issues.   He’s now been alcohol and illegal substance free for two years.  He’s getting married and will soon become a father. 

Joe maintains his own tenancy, volunteers for charity and enjoys life.  Throughout this time an Aspire Mentor has been able to support him, first to access treatment, and then throughout his treatment plan and after care.  This support - regular visits and phone calls encouraging his life changes - have, he says, been an important part of his recovery. 

Joe writes: ‘You are the one I turn to when I need to talk or need advice, and if I don’t take it you don’t judge me.  My life was a mess, and now thanks to your support I have so much to look forward to.  Two years clean and counting!’