Is LJMU a recovery-friendly university? A conversation about alcohol and other drugs

Abstract

From our 2023-2030 Strategy, LJMU’s vision is to be an inclusive civic university. We can be proud of what we have already done to ensure our positive culture builds community, embraces diversity and supports well-being. We respond to modern-day challenges, reflecting our position at the heart of the Liverpool City Region and our standing nationally and internationally. Our Public Health programmes build upon our research excellence in substance use and the impact drug or alcohol use has on our communities. Our students include those with lived experience or who are in recovery, particularly within our Public Health (Addictions) Masters where our teaching reflects our commitment to breaking down stigma by having honest conversations about alcohol and other drugs.

There are only a handful of UK universities that demonstrate a tangible commitment to promoting recovery and supporting those with lived experience of substance use. One way a university can do this is to sign up to the University Recovery Friendly Pledge. Alternatively, universities can engage with peer-led voluntary sector organisations to promote higher education as an invaluable opportunity to grow and learn which should be available to all.

This lightning talk will aim to start a conversation about recovery in LJMU. If we are honest in our strategic commitment to retain our role as an agent of social mobility, what more might we want to do to promote recovery across the university and break down barriers for people in recovery? Should we be considering signing up to the University Recovery Pledge or are there other ways of embedding recovery in our approach to supporting a student’s journey?

Is LJMU a recovery-friendly university? A conversation about alcohol and other drugs, PowerPoint. Only LJMU staff and students have access to this resource.