Carving a path to hope in Newcastle

A community project is using creativity to support people in recovery.

The Recovery Sculpture Project, led by Tyne Housing in partnership with Revival Newcastle and supported by Newcastle City Council, will see participants recovering from substance misuse create a seven-foot, hand-carved wooden sculpture in Byker. 

Officials say the initiative combines arts-based workshops with dedicated mental health support, allowing participants to build confidence, wellbeing and practical woodwork skills.

They add that the weekly sessions give individuals space to express their stories and emotions while learning craft techniques, with participants carving their names carved into the sculpture as a permanent symbol of their journey.

Steve Wood, addictions and mental coordinator at the Recovery College Collective and chair of Revival Newcastle, said: “The aim of the project is to ask participants: ‘What does recovery actually mean to you?’ so that we can help capture their individual stories as part of a creative process. 

“This will then be shared with others in the recovery community as well as city stakeholders, with the final result being a new public sculpture for Newcastle upon Tyne.

“Each story (and recovery journey) is very different and if we can help one more person take positive steps forward and be inspired by those taking part, it’s worthwhile. 

“The project, and our engagement with vulnerable adults and young people, can provide the confidence to open up, talk to others with similar experiences, and take those crucial first steps, all in a creative and relaxed environment. 

“We’d encourage anyone considering recovery to take part.”

Bryan Beverley, wellbeing and learning manager at Tyne Housing, added: “Our woodwork studio is a very open, accessible and productive environment to deliver the project and just one of the many extended services and facilities that Tyne Housing offers to vulnerable adults.

“It helps people get to a better place and encourages personal development and participation.

“The team has the expertise to not only teach specific trade skills but also get the very best outcomes for the people they are working with. 

“We’re delighted to be part of the Recovery Sculpture Project and look forward to seeing the installation take shape over the next few months.”

The project will culminate in a public unveiling before Christmas and a special event at Newcastle Cathedral in September, aligning with National Recovery Month and National Suicide Prevention Day (Wednesday, September 10), highlighting the role of community creativity in supporting recovery and raising awareness.

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