Tariq Mazharuddin and Michelle McGuinness achievements recognised at awards ceremony

Tariq Mazharuddin, who received the Progression Award

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Tariq Mazharuddin and Michelle McGuinness, who both completed a programme of abstinence and learning with Acorn Recovery Projects, became the first two Acorn clients to be recognised at Hopwood Hall College’s Further Education Awards, which took place at Middleton Arena.

The pair were put forward for the award by Hopwood Hall College’s Emma Whittle, who delivers the Community Learning and Reintegration (CLEAR) treatment process, after she recognised the efforts they had made in completing the programme.

The CLEAR programme was designed by Acorn, in partnership with Hopwood Hall College, specifically to help those in recovery from addiction overcome the practical and psychological barriers in gaining employment or progressing into further education.

Tariq was given the Progression Award, recognising his journey from addiction to volunteer and, ultimately, to paid employee.

Ten months ago, Tariq was undergoing the CLEAR process with Acorn and, upon completion, took up a programme of voluntary work.

Through his volunteering efforts, Tariq was offered and has accepted a full-time, paid position with Hopwood Hall College.

Tariq said: “It was an honour and a privilege to win the award – I was really made up when I found out about it.

“It was great participating in the community learning and reintegration programme, helping to get clients back into a learning environment and building their confidence.

“I’ve recently been offered full-time work with Hopwood Hall College. I’m really grateful for all the work Acorn have done in helping me achieve this, especially Derek and Simon.”

Michelle, who was presented with an Achievement Award for her efforts in completing the process, said: “I was blown away with the award – it left me speechless! I felt proud as punch to receive the award – thanks to everyone that helped me.”

Acorn Recovery Projects provide a range of innovative drug and alcohol rehabilitation services across the North West, including reduction and motivation programmes, abstinence treatment programmes, combined treatment programmes, prison based recovery programmes, supported accommodation, and social enterprise.