Start, Hartlepool Borough Council’s drug and alcohol support service, has been awarded the Partnership Impact Award at the Recovery Connections Annual Awards.
Start, Hartlepool Borough Council’s drug and alcohol support service, has been awarded the Partnership Impact Award at the Recovery Connections Annual Awards.
The award recognises the community work and partnerships Start has built across Hartlepool to create a healthy, stigma‑free environment for people on their recovery journey.
Start was nominated for its outstanding support, collaboration and commitment to the people of Hartlepool. The nomination highlighted that: “The partnership has created better access, smoother pathways, and a stronger recovery community. Start’s willingness to collaborate, adapt, and put people at the centre of every decision has had a real and measurable impact on recovery outcomes.”
Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of the Adult Services and Public Health Committee, said:
“We’re incredibly proud of the Start team for receiving this award. Their commitment, compassion, and belief in people’s ability to recover shines through in everything they do.
This recognition from Recovery Connections is a testament to the trust they build with our community and the real difference they make every single day.”
In September, Start hosted the annual Hartlepool Recovery Festival, bringing together organisations from across the town to deliver a programme of events aimed at breaking the stigma around recovery and encouraging people to reach out for help. Partners included Hartlepool FC, Hartlepool Cricket Club, Hartlepool Art Gallery, Recovery Connections and others, helping to unite and celebrate the recovery community.
Dot Smith, Chief Executive Officer at Recovery Connections said: “We’re delighted to see our partnership with Start continue to have a positive impact in Hartlepool. To win the inaugural Partnership Impact Award was a fully deserved accolade after months of great work in the town. Their commitment to collaboration and focus on putting people at the heart of every decision, has made a real difference to how recovery is supported and understood in Hartlepool.
“The relationships we’ve built together show what’s possible when organisations share values, listen to communities, and work side‑by‑side to create meaningful change. We’re proud to stand alongside them and grateful for the impact they’re making every day.”
Start’s mission is to give Hartlepool residents the best chance of recovery. In January, Start Hartlepool’s new Drug and Alcohol Treatment Centre officially opened its doors, welcoming patients, staff and partners into a modern, purpose‑built space where high‑quality treatment and support can be delivered.
Start and Recovery Connections work in close partnership to support people in Hartlepool affected by drug and alcohol use. Start provides free, confidential treatment and recovery coordination for residents, offering clinical and therapeutic support as part of the town’s integrated substance misuse service.
Start provides free and confidential treatment and support to help individuals regain control of their lives, regardless of the level of support required. If accessing the service is a challenge, flexible arrangements can be made to meet individuals in various community settings across Hartlepool.