Kenward Trust’s Recovery Celebration Festival 2025 Welcomes Over 200 Guests to Honour Courage, Hope and Lifelong Transformation
Kenward Trust’s Recovery Celebration Festival 2025 Welcomes Over 200 Guests to Honour Courage, Hope and Lifelong Transformation
Over 200 people gathered at Kenward Trust this week for the annual Recovery Celebration Festival, a vibrant and emotional event recognising the achievements of individuals on their recovery journeys and the dedication of those who support them.
This year’s festival was the biggest and most impactful yet, attended by commissioners, key workers, partners, supporters, former residents, and honoured guests including the High Sheriff of Kent, Jonathan Neame, and his wife Lucie. The event brought together people from across the community to celebrate recovery, share stories, and highlight the power of hope and transformation.
In her welcome speech, CEO Penny Williams opened the day with a message of unity and pride.
"Recovery is not a straight line. It’s about bravery, belief, and the quiet strength of starting over. Today we celebrate not just milestones, but the people behind them."
Former residents, some returning after 2, 5 or even 10 years, shared deeply moving stories of change and healing, giving current residents inspiration and proof that long-term recovery is possible.
Presentations throughout the day showcased the breadth of Kenward’s services, including the Resettlement Service, Recovery Plus, the Kenward 12 Step Programme, and the Kenward House Programme. Each highlighted the powerful, structured pathways that support individuals as they move from early recovery to long-term independence.
Also showcased was Kenward’s Youth Services, with Kim Webster presenting on the Think Differently Programme, a powerful early-intervention initiative delivered in schools to educate young people around substance misuse and positive decision-making.
Guests learned more about trauma playing its part in addiction, heard real-life stories and enjoyed live music, all reinforcing the charity’s holistic approach to recovery.
Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the warmth, professionalism, and inspiration that filled the day.
"It was an uplifting, emotional and proud day for all of us," one supporter said. "Kenward doesn’t just change lives, it saves them."
Celebrating over 58 years of service, Kenward Trust continues to lead in addiction recovery across Kent and beyond, offering residential programmes, family support, youth outreach and community resettlement.
To learn more or get involved, visit: Kenward Trust | Kent's Leading Alcohol & Drug Rehabilitation & Resettlement Centre.