Who We Are

About Borders in Recovery

A peer-led community built on lived experience, genuine connection and the belief that recovery is possible for everyone.

Our Story

Born from the Community, Built for the Community

Borders in Recovery began in 2022 with a simple idea: recovery should not be something people have to do alone.

At the time, there were limited opportunities for people in recovery from alcohol and drug problems to connect with others who understood their experiences. Many people described feeling isolated, disconnected and unsure where to turn once formal treatment or support had ended.

In response, Recovery Coaching Scotland launched Borders in Recovery with a single weekly Recovery Café in Galashiels. What started as a small gathering quickly grew into something much bigger. People were not just looking for support — they were looking for community, connection and a sense of belonging.

As attendance increased, Borders in Recovery expanded its programme to include SMART Recovery meetings, peer support, social activities, wellbeing groups and community events. New Recovery Cafés opened across the Scottish Borders, creating welcoming spaces where people could build friendships, develop confidence and support one another's recovery journeys.

Today, Borders in Recovery operates a vibrant programme of recovery and wellbeing activities across the region — including Recovery Cafés, SMART Recovery groups, women's and men's groups, creative workshops, fitness and wellbeing programmes, family-friendly activities and opportunities for volunteering, learning and personal development.

Together, we are proving that recovery is possible — and that stronger recovery communities create stronger communities for everyone.

Part of Recovery Coaching Scotland

Borders in Recovery is part of Recovery Coaching Scotland — a Borders-based non-profit dedicated to building peer-led recovery communities across Scotland.

Visit Recovery Coaching Scotland

Our Mission

To build a thriving recovery community across the Scottish Borders — where everyone affected by addiction can find connection, support and hope.

Our Vision

A Scottish Borders where recovery is visible, celebrated and accessible — and where no one faces their journey alone.

What We Believe

Our values shape everything we do — from how we run our groups to how we welcome someone through the door for the first time.

Peer-Led

Everything we do is shaped by people with lived experience of addiction and recovery. We don't just support recovery — we're part of it.

Community First

Recovery happens in community. We build genuine belonging — not just services — so that no one has to face their journey alone.

Trauma-Informed

We understand that addiction is often rooted in pain. Our approach is compassionate, non-judgmental and grounded in understanding.

Strengths-Based

We focus on what people can do, not what they can't. Every person who comes through our doors has strengths worth building on.

What Makes Us Different

Recovery Without Barriers

We've deliberately removed every barrier we can think of. No waiting lists, no referrals, no charges, no judgement. Just a community ready to welcome you.

Find Support