Powerful stories of survival, resilience and hope will take centre stage at a free event marking International Overdose Awareness Day in Liverpool.
Voices of Recovery will bring together people with lived experience, local support organisations and residents at the Museum of Liverpool on Monday 31 August 2026.
Taking place from 11am to 4pm, the event will give residents an opportunity to hear directly from people in recovery from drug and alcohol use, learn about the support available across Liverpool and help challenge the stigma surrounding addiction and overdose.
International Overdose Awareness Day is marked around the world each year. It remembers without stigma those whose lives have been lost to overdose, acknowledges the grief experienced by families and friends and raises awareness that overdose can be prevented.
At Voices of Recovery, residents will be able to:
- Hear powerful stories from people with lived experience
- Meet organisations supporting recovery across Liverpool
- Find out where to access advice, treatment and support
- Connect with others affected by drug and alcohol use
- Join an important conversation about overdose, recovery and hope
The event is free, everyone is welcome and there is no need to book.
Liverpool Town Hall will also be illuminated purple, the internationally recognised colour of overdose awareness, as a visible symbol of remembrance and solidarity with everyone affected. The lighting will also showcase recovery across the city and share a message of hope that, with the right support, people can rebuild their lives.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, said:
“The most powerful way to challenge stigma is to listen to people who have experienced addiction and recovery. Their stories show enormous courage and remind us that recovery is possible.
“Whether you have lost someone, are worried about yourself or somebody close to you, are in recovery or simply want to listen and learn, you will be warmly welcomed. Nobody should ever feel ashamed to ask for help.”
Professor Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool City Council, said:
“Every life lost to overdose is a tragedy, with a lasting impact on families, friends and communities.
“Voices of Recovery will help residents better understand the realities of addiction, hear directly from people with lived experience and connect with services offering compassionate, practical support. By listening and working together, we can reduce harm, prevent overdoses and give more people hope.”
Drug and alcohol support in Liverpool
If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s drug or alcohol use, RIVER provides free and confidential support for Liverpool residents.
Support includes one-to-one guidance, group sessions, treatment options and help for families and carers. Residents can:
- Call 0151 706 7888
- Email liverpool.info@cgl.org.uk
You can also visit any RIVER hub without an appointment for your first meeting.
Find out more about the event on RIVER’s social media channel.
