This meeting is provided by St Joseph's Approved Premises.

Nicola Heard
 
Dylan Roberts
 
Shannon Corr
 
Jodie Slater
 
Anna Smith
 
Claire Liles
 
Are you one of the above facilitators for this meeting? If so, you can manage your meeting.

Meeting #: 1849

 

SMART Recovery Meetings at St Joseph’s Approved Premises – Purpose and Benefits for Residents

SMART Recovery meetings delivered at St Joseph’s Approved Premises form an important part of the rehabilitative support offered to residents who have been released from prison and are motivated to make positive, lasting change. These meetings provide a structured and evidence‑informed approach to recovery that aligns closely with rehabilitation goals, desistance from offending, and personal responsibility.

SMART Recovery is a voluntary, non‑judgemental programme that supports individuals to manage addictive or harmful behaviours by developing practical skills and strategies for change. It is particularly beneficial for residents in an Approved Premises setting who may be adjusting to life in the community, managing risk factors, and rebuilding stability following custody.

Key Benefits for Residents

1. Supports Motivation to Change

SMART Recovery is designed for individuals who are motivated to make changes in their lives. The meetings encourage residents to set their own goals, reflect on their choices, and take ownership of their recovery journey. This promotes internal motivation rather than compliance‑based change, which is essential for long‑term rehabilitation.

2. Builds Practical Coping Skills

Residents are supported to develop practical tools to manage cravings, urges, emotional distress, and high‑risk situations. These skills are transferable to daily life and help residents manage pressure points that can increase the risk of relapse or re‑offending.

3. Encourages Self‑Management and Responsibility

SMART Recovery focuses on self‑management and empowering individuals to take responsibility for their behaviour. This approach aligns strongly with rehabilitative principles, supporting residents to recognise triggers, develop problem‑solving skills, and make informed decisions that support a law‑abiding lifestyle.

4. Promotes Emotional Regulation and Mental Wellbeing

Many residents experience emotional dysregulation, stress, or low self‑confidence following release from custody. SMART Recovery helps residents understand the link between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, supporting improved emotional regulation and mental wellbeing.

5. Provides Structured, Pro‑Social Support

Group meetings offer a safe and supportive environment where residents can share experiences, learn from others, and develop pro‑social connections. This reduces isolation and helps residents feel understood, while reinforcing positive peer support within the Approved Premises.

6. Complements Other Rehabilitation and Treatment Pathways

SMART Recovery works alongside other services such as substance misuse treatment, mental health support, probation supervision, and keywork sessions. It does not replace clinical or specialist interventions but enhances overall rehabilitation by reinforcing coping strategies and motivation.

7. Supports Resettlement and Risk Reduction

By helping residents develop structure, routines, and relapse‑prevention strategies, SMART Recovery contributes to safer resettlement in the community. Improved self‑awareness and coping skills can reduce impulsivity and high‑risk behaviours, supporting compliance with licence conditions and reducing the likelihood of recall.

Relevance to an Approved Premises Setting

For residents at St Joseph’s Approved Premises, SMART Recovery meetings offer a trauma‑informed, respectful, and empowering approach to recovery that recognises the complex needs of individuals released from prison. The programme supports rehabilitation by:

Encouraging reflection and personal growth

Strengthening emotional and behavioural self‑control

Supporting progress towards independence and stability

Reinforcing positive change as part of a wider resettlement plan

Overall, SMART Recovery plays a valuable role in supporting residents who are motivated to change, contributing positively to their rehabilitation, recovery, and successful reintegration into the community.

The meeting is accessible to wheelchair users