People in drug and alcohol recovery to stage unique adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol'

People recovering from drug and alcohol problems are to perform a special stage adaptation of ‘A Christmas Carol‘.

The curtain will rise on a unique performance of Charles Dickens’ festive classic at Johnstone Town Hall in Renfrewshire on Monday.

It will see Ebenezer Scrooge admitted to rehab, where he meets people struggling with different forms of addiction.

Those preparing for the opening night have been reflecting on the challenges of accessing the residential rehab they believe has saved their lives.

‘I couldn’t do it on my own’

Vincent said it was a struggle to get a bed at the rehab facility STV News

Vincent, like most of the cast, is drawing on his own experience of his time at rehab clinic Abbeycare. The 54-year-old waited 12 weeks to access a bed.

He told STV News: “I couldn’t do it on my own. I needed help with my addiction for drugs. I just knew it was the right time. It was a long, long 12 weeks but it started the ball rolling with a reduction plan, and it gave me the structure that I need for my recovery.

“I was first introduced to drama therapy while in Abbeycare as a client. When I was asked to take part in the aftercare community’s first ever play, I jumped at the chance.

“Through rehearsals and team meetings, we have created a very strong bond. I’m really nervous about the show. I’m also excited and know from past events that the pride we all feel afterwards is what makes this all worthwhile.”

‘It helps boost people’s confidence’

Excitement and nerves are building ahead of next week’s performance.

But recovery practitioner Megan Brennan says taking part in the performance has helped many in their road to recovery.

She told STV News: “I can only speak for myself, but I know when I was an active addiction, I didn’t have the ability really to express myself. I was really shut off.

“Towards the end of their using, a lot of people are very isolated. So, this work is about helping them get back in touch with their emotions and boosting confidence.”

‘I’d have died from addiction if I didn’t get this help’

Ross Carrick, 42, a former client of Abbeycare, is enjoying the challenge of taking part in the play as part of his recovery.

“Before being referred to Abbeycare, I was locked away on my own in my flat, drinking and using drugs, not even answering the phone,” he said.

Ross Carrick battled drug and alcohol addiction. STV News

“So being able to have an opportunity like this, to work on a project, to be reliable and to keep appointments is a massive difference.”

He added: “I feel it’s a shame for others who are unable to access residential help. The very people that need it the most are probably the people that have the least financial means to get there.

“I feel almost guilty at the fact that I have been a beneficiary of the limited funds available in my area, but I also feel very lucky.

“I remember my mum phoning all sorts of places, looking to get me in somewhere. It was always the case you needed thousands of pounds, even for just four weeks.

“I know without this help, I would almost certainly be still drinking and using drugs. At some point I would have ended up dying from it.”

‘We have got a long waiting list at the moment’

Those leading the Abbeycare aftercare group say its membership has grown in the last 18 months, along with an increase in their waiting lists.

“There is a big demand,” explained admissions development manager Gordon Peacock. We have increased with capacity. We have opened up two new rooms specifically for local authority individuals.

Admissions manager Gordon Peacock STV News

“We have got a long waiting list at the moment, probably our next available bed isn’t till end of March, start of April next year.

“There are around 20 people on our waiting list. There are a variety of reasons why people are on a waiting list. Maybe they are not quite ready. Some may have health issues or housing issues.”

Outreach manager Eddie Clarke added: “The numbers of clients getting into rehab has increased with the funding from the Scottish Government there to use, but still I feel there’s a lack of beds and there is still a lack of treatment centres where everybody can get that opportunity.”

Despite the ongoing issues, Eddie said he and the cast are “excited” to finally bring Ebeneezer Scrooge to life on stage.

“A Christmas Carol is ultimately a story about redemption and making things right, themes that so many people who have been affected by drug and alcohol issues can identify with,” he said.

“There will no doubt be some nerves among the cast as they prepare for the curtain to go up, but part of recovery is doing things that previously felt impossible, and this is no different.

“With this special performance by Abbeycare staff and some of our former clients, we hope to demonstrate that it’s never too late to change your life for the better.”