A new recovery community has opened its doors in Newport, with its founder hoping his own experience of addiction will inspire others to seek help and discover that recovery is possible.
The Light Recovery CIC has been launched by 48-year-old Mat Riches, whose own battle with alcohol addiction ultimately led him to create a welcoming space where people can find support, friendship and hope.
Rather than competing against the Isle of Wight’s existing recovery services, The Light has been designed to complement them by providing peer-led activities, workshops and a sense of community for those on their own recovery journey.
For many years, Mat built a successful career in London, working in public relations before becoming publicist to Sir Terence Conran and later Head of Communications for Conran’s design and restaurant group.
Outwardly he appeared successful, but behind the scenes alcohol had become part of every aspect of his life.
He says addiction slowly took hold, despite a loving upbringing, successful career and supportive family, describing it as “insidious” and something that affected him physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
After opening and running a successful restaurant and bar in North London, his addiction worsened. His career suffered, his marriage broke down and, despite moving to the Isle of Wight for a fresh start, he found himself unable to stop drinking.
At the age of 45, Mat made the difficult decision to move back to Yorkshire to live with his mum, leaving behind his young son, Beau.
What felt like his lowest point became the turning point.
Following treatment, Mat discovered a community recovery programme at the Kindness Cafe, part of the award-winning Basement Project in Todmorden, where he experienced recovery built around friendship, activities, support and connection rather than simply giving up alcohol.
Although there were setbacks along the way, he returned to the Isle of Wight determined to use what he had learned to help others.
Eighteen months later, that vision has become reality with the opening of The Light in the heart of Newport.
The community interest company offers a wide range of peer-led groups and activities including creative writing, arts and crafts, photography, Reiki, drumming meditation, walking groups and community get-togethers, with plans to introduce men’s and women’s groups, a recovery choir and a sensory room in the coming weeks.
Mat believes recovery is strengthened through community, with members encouraged to shape the activities and direction of the space themselves.
Looking to the future, he hopes The Light will continue expanding its role within the wider community, with ambitions that include volunteering projects, a recovery café and opportunities for people rebuilding their lives to develop new skills.
Today, Mat says the greatest reward has been rebuilding his relationship with his son, who now simply knows him as “a happy daddy” – something he never thought would be possible during the darkest days of his addiction.
Reflecting on his journey, Mat wants others struggling with addiction to know that no matter how hopeless life may seem, support is available.
“There is always someone there,”
“Recovery is possible. There is always light, there is always hope, and there is a whole community willing to walk beside you.”
The Light hopes to become one part of that growing recovery community on the Isle of Wight.
