Annemarie Ward will remain in her role with FAVOR UK.
A leading campaigner and charity CEO has announced her decision to step back from the frontline of the fight against drug abuse.
Annemarie Ward, CEO of Faces and Voices of Recovery (FAVOR) UK, has said she will be moving on to less frontline work supporting those in recovery in despair at the approach of politicians in Scotland.
Ms Ward, who founded the charity in 2013 after recovering herself from drug addiction issues, has said she is content she has “done all I can and it is now time to focus on my health and the joys of recovery”, saying she now has a “sense of release, closure, and fulfilment”.
In a statement on the FAVOR UK website, she wrote: “The fight must continue, but it is time for others to take up the mantle. This decision brings me profound relief and I hope a return to peace.
“I understand that this news might be met with mixed emotions. While some civil servants and politicians might feel relieved, they should not be too complacent. There are many others who are deeply passionate about addressing the needless loss of lives.
“Like a good mother or teacher, I believe in the power of repetition, but there comes a time to move on if the message isn’t being received.
“This is not a farewell but a transition from this style of campaigning. I will return to the advocacy style that brought me joy when I first established our charity, FAVOR UK, with our original strapline, “making recovery visible.
“We will continue to advocate for better access and choice of services and build on and expand the FAVOR UK advocacy service. While I will occasionally comment publicly when invited, our focus will shift to highlighting the joys, paths, and opportunities of recovery.
“We will now focus on educating and sharing our experiences of the many different paths to recovery, celebrating them all. Our mission is to inspire those still seeking a way out, emphasising the joy of healing.
“As I step back from the forefront of campaigning about the deep injustice of the horrific drug deaths I am filled with gratitude for all the support and encouragement I have received. The journey has been arduous, but the progress made and the lives touched have been worth every effort. It is now time for me to focus on my well-being and allow others to carry the torch forward.
“To everyone who has stood by me, fought alongside me, and believed in this cause – thank you. Your dedication and passion are what keep this movement alive.
“I look forward to this new chapter, one where I can rediscover the joys of life and continue to contribute in ways that uplift and inspire. The work we have done is not in vain; it is the foundation upon which new advocates will build.
“Thank you, and may we all find the peace and strength to continue the good fight in our own ways. This is not an end but a new beginning for FAVOR UK and all of our supporters dedicated to the cause of recovery and healing.”
