Our biggest and most inspiring Recovery Celebration Weekend is coming to Bournemouth this May at Winton Methodist  Church— we will hear from the Machine Gun Preacher and Tough Talk with their powerlifting demonstrations, guest speakers including Lauren Windle, Clyde Thomas, Laura Bird and a full day of recovery filled encouragement and uplifting workshops (see full schedule below). Read more about our line up of guest speakers and bands.

This weekend is for anyone walking their own recovery path, those who support others through their work or volunteering, and anyone curious to learn more about addiction and the journey to healing.

We are pleased to be supported by the inspiring organisations of ISAAC and the Genesis Project to bring this event to you, and there will be a chance to meet many organisations over the weekend.

Event Schedule

FRIDAY - Opening Night of Inspiration

4:00 – 5:00 pm Early Bird Mental Health Workshop

With Emma Heath & Laura Bird A gentle, grounding start to the weekend—an empowering session focused on mental wellbeing, emotional resilience, and practical tools for recovery.

5:30 – 6:30 pm Panel Discussion with Our Speakers

An honest, hope‑filled conversation with our weekend speakers as they share their stories, insights, and lived experience of recovery.

7:00 – 9:00 pm Tough Talk

A powerful evening with Tough Talk, known for their raw, real, and faith‑driven testimonies that speak straight to the heart and amazing power-lifting displays.

9:00 pm - 10:00pm After Hours Music Session with The Town Centre Gospel Band

SATURDAY - A Full Day of Recovery & Renewal

9:00 am – Doors Open

Arrive, settle in, and connect with our recovery community.

9:30 am - Morning Recovery Celebration Meeting

A vibrant, uplifting gathering to start the day with gratitude, unity, and shared strength.

1:00 – 2:00 and 2:30 - 3:30 pm Afternoon Workshops

Dive deeper into recovery with three transformative sessions:

• Sam Childers – Faith in Recovery The Machine Gun Preacher shares his journey of courage, conviction, and the power of belief.
• Lauren Windle – Sober not dry:Lauren is a writer, presenter and public speaker who focuses on faith, love and recovery and will be delivering a workshop on the joy of dating without alcohol.
• Laura Bird – Understanding Co‑dependency Insightful guidance on breaking patterns and reclaiming personal freedom.
• Stuart Leitch - Life Skills: Living Well in Recovery Practical tools and strategies for building confidence, resilience, and long‑term recovery.

4:00 – 6:00 pm Film Screening: Machine Gun Preacher

Experience the remarkable true story behind Sam Childers’ mission and message.

7:00 pm - The Machine Gun Preacher

Sam Childers closes the weekend with an unforgettable talk on redemption, purpose, and the fight for recovery.

9:00 - 10:00 pm After Hours Music Session with Kingstone Reggae Band