12 fab photos celebrating addiction recovery at the Bridge to Hope Festival

Hundreds of people came together in Barnes Park for the inaugural Bridge to Hope Festival, Sunderland's first large-scale celebration of recovery, resilience, hope and community.

The event took place on Sunday (September 6) and was organised by Wear Recovery, who provide tailored help to people suffering from drug and alcohol addiction as well as support for their families.

Participants took part in the colourful Bridge to Hope Colour Run, enjoyed live music and entertainment, explored activities and information from community organisations, and participated in a range of wellbeing, recovery and family-friendly sessions.

Throughout the day, inspirational stories were shared by people with lived experience, helping to raise awareness of recovery journeys while reducing stigma and encouraging understanding. The festival also highlighted the wide range of support available across Sunderland, “bringing together services, charities and community groups in one welcoming space”.

Check out these 12 fab photos which captured the day.

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