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Watch Les' Story
As part of Alcohol Awareness Week, Les is sharing his story to help raise awareness of alcohol dependency, the challenges of recovery, and the importance of seeking support.
How Alcohol Became Part of Everyday Life
Les grew up in a household where drinking was normalised.
His father worked long hours and, like many people of that generation, alcohol was often part of daily life and social culture. As Les entered adulthood, married young and took on a stressful job, drinking became increasingly woven into his own routine.
What started as a way to relax after work gradually escalated.
A few drinks became more drinks. Beer became stronger alcohol. Over time, his tolerance increased and alcohol became something he relied upon to cope with the pressures of everyday life.
It got to the point where it was the first thing I thought of when I got up in the morning and I still thought I was alright.
Like many people experiencing alcohol dependency, Les didn't initially recognise the extent of the problem.
I'd become a fantastic liar, a master of lying to people and covering it up.
As his dependency grew, alcohol began to affect many aspects of his life, including his relationships, finances, wellbeing and self-confidence.
At the time, Les felt isolated and unable to stop drinking, even though he could see the impact it was having. His experience highlights an important reality of addiction: recognising there is a problem and knowing how to overcome it are often two very different things.
Reaching Out for Support
Eventually, Les sought help through Lincolnshire Recovery Partnership.
While the journey wasn't always straightforward, he began engaging with support programmes and recovery groups that helped him better understand his relationship with alcohol and build long-term coping strategies.
Like many people in recovery, there were setbacks along the way. However, through continued support, understanding and encouragement, Les learnt that recovery is an ongoing process rather than a destination.
The support he received helped him develop the confidence, self-awareness and resilience needed to make lasting changes.
Finding a Community Without Judgement
A key part of Les' recovery was being surrounded by people who understood what he was experiencing.
Rather than feeling judged, he found a team that listened, supported him and helped him take positive steps forward.
They know you've got a problem. They make you aware in the best possible way that you have got a problem and this is what we're going to do to help you get over it.
The recovery community gave Les a sense of belonging and reminded him that he did not have to face addiction alone.
From Recovery to Peer Mentor
Today, Les is a Peer Mentor at Lincolnshire Recovery Partnership.
Using his own lived experience, he now supports others who are facing similar challenges and helps people take the first steps on their own recovery journeys.
His story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, even after many years of alcohol dependency.
Reflecting on his experience, Les says:
The recovery for me is a new lease of life.
And despite the difficulties he faced, he would not change his past.
It's made me the man I am. And now I'm a proud man.
Support Is Available
Alcohol dependency can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or circumstances.
Whether you're concerned about your own drinking or worried about someone close to you, reaching out for support can be the first step towards positive change.
Recovery doesn't happen overnight, but with the right support, understanding and guidance, it is possible to regain control and build a healthier future.
Concerned About Your Drinking?
If alcohol is having an impact on your health, relationships, work or wellbeing, support is available.
Turning Point provides confidential advice, treatment and recovery support for people affected by alcohol and drug use. Whether you're looking for information, structured support or simply someone to talk to, our team is here to help.
Take the first step today.
You can create positive change in your life too.
Get in touch with us.