Longstanding resident of Wavertree rehabilitation centre moves to full time employment

Wavertree based abstinence recovery project, Vitality Homes, has continued to flourish even during lockdown.

Damien John Kelly House – Vitality Homes’ all male centre that supports residents in their abstinence and sobriety – has said a fond farewell to one of its longstanding residents.

Ryan Steinlet first came to Vitality Homes after a period of residential rehabilitation in a centre in Runcorn. After years of being in active addiction, Ryan worked hard at the treatment centre and subsequently at DJK House further deepening his recovery and has marked two years of sobriety.

During his active recovery, Ryan undertook various roles volunteering, underwent training and embraced Vitality Homes’ full programme that is centred around sports, arts and culture as well as additional therapeutic initiatives.

And whilst the UK is under its third national lockdown, Vitality Homes’ residents have actually deepened their recovery during the times of restriction and formed a real sense of community through the creation of a new programme that allows for quarantine and social distancing, without losing any support that is necessary for the residents on their sobriety journey.

In fact, the support has been further increased with frontline staff attending seven days a week. Residents have also been completing other tasks on the support programme online including Zoom groups, 1-2-1 sessions and access to online AA/NA/CA and each week.

As a result of his hard work and commitment to recovery, Ryan has now secured a full-time job at the rehabilitation centre he self referred to when he was at rock bottom.

Ryan said: “It’s such a wonderful reward to secure employment at the rehab where I was at my lowest, but I will certainly miss everyone at DJK House and all of the community in Wavertree. It’s been such a great experience and I’ll be using everything that I have learned from the staff here.

“I’m aware that there are lots of different types of supported accommodation but this place has been second to none and I’ll be keeping in touch with everyone.”

Founder of Vitality Homes, Kate Stewart, added:

“This is why we do what we do at Vitality Homes. We support people to change their lives for the better – motivating them and encouraging them to engage in our programme and become more active members of society. I’m incredibly proud of Ryan and all that he has achieved on his journey and wish him the very best of luck in his new role.”

Jacquie Johnston-Lynch, Head of Service at Vitality Homes, said:

“Ryan is one of the many men who have left us to go on to the world of work and academia, and we’re very proud of each and every one of them. We advocate solid recovery and ensure our residents reach that place before moving on, and that move is planned and proactive to ensure their transition is both smooth and sustainable.”