Recovering alcoholics tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in Liverpool

PJ Smith, recovery lead at Damien John Kelly House
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


Recovering alcoholics and drug addicts are helping to combat a rise in anti-social behaviour and violence in an area of Liverpool. The residents of Damien John Kelly House (DJK House), an abstinence-based recovery centre based in Wavertree High Street are taking part in a new initiative aimed at reducing crime and violence in the local area.

The project is being funded by Liverpool City Council and Merseyside Police. The staff, residents and those who have moved on and graduated from the unique recovery centre, will host a series of talks across the next six weeks exploring the idea of male identity, violent crime and family systems and support. They will go into local schools to try and reach out to young people at risk of becoming involved with crime. They will also visit two local prisons to offer support to prisoners who want to make changes to their lifestyle after sentence.

Jacquie Fisher, head of service at DJK House - which is part of Vitality Homes - said: "The men here all have huge backstories, where they have experienced addiction, alcoholism, poor mental health, crime and trauma, so they have lived experience of the things that have made Wavertree a hotspot for crime. They have transformed their own lives, their families lives and are now wanting to help transform the area.”

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Jacqui Fisher, head of service at Damien John Kelly House in Wavertree
-Credit:Liverpool Echo

Merseyside Police has provided funding for the scheme through the Hotspot Response Fund, a government-backed initiative designed to address and reduce incidents of antisocial behaviour and serious violence in identified hotspot areas.

Constable Jo Stevens, from Merseyside Police said: “Over the last year, we have been working with community members to address their concerns and identify opportunities to tackle serious violence and crime. This project with DJK House in Wavertree will highlight awareness, change, growth and support.

“We are determined to drive down crime and through our targeted patrols, we have seen significant reductions in serious violent crime and antisocial behaviour. But we know that initiatives like this, aimed at strengthening communities, are just as important to keep people safe, and DJK House are best placed to lead on this.”

The series of three talks will take place at Papas Bistro on Picton Rd and a free meal is available at the session. To book on any of the events or to get more information please contact Jacquie@vitalityhomes.co.uk.