Always on
This project successfully funded on 3rd July 2026, you can still support them with a donation.
Recovery Games 2026: Fun, Impact & Community!
Sheffield, South Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Aim
Smashing stigma through the power of play! Join our high-energy "It’s a Knockout" festival to unite families and celebrate recovery in 2026.
The Journey
, the Team, and the Vision
About Me & My Journey I’m Neil Firbank.Podcast about my personal journey For me, the Recovery Games is deeply personal. My own recovery journey—from the depths of addiction and homelessness to long-term wellness—taught me that clinical support is only half the battle. To truly thrive, you need connection, purpose, and joy. I founded this movement 13 years ago within the NHS to create that missing piece. To ensure its future, we have recently transitioned into an independent Community Interest Company (CIC), led by people with lived experience who truly "get it."
The Idea: A Festival of Resilience Now in our 13th year, the Games have evolved into a national flagship event. We host a high-octane "It’s a Knockout" tournament set within a vibrant, family-friendly festival. This year, we are welcoming 800+ competitors from across the UK and 100+ volunteers. But it’s about more than just the inflatables—we bring in top-tier musical artists and DJs to keep the energy high and provide a dedicated stage for those with lived experience to showcase their creative talents, from music to the arts.
Our Vision We want to smash the stigma of addiction by making recovery loud, proud, and creative. We are proving that recovery isn't a life of "doing without," but a life of "doing more"—more fun, more connection, and more community.
How We Will Use the Funds
As a CIC, we rely on your support to keep the Games 100% free for every participant and family. Your donations fund:
The Arena: Hiring professional-grade "It’s a Knockout" obstacle courses.
The Main Stage: Bringing in top-tier DJs and artists, and providing the professional audio setup for our lived-experience performers.
The Festival Village: Creating a safe, family-friendly environment with activities for all ages.
Volunteer & Athlete Kits: Providing t-shirts and medals for our 800+ athletes and 100+ volunteers, fostering a powerful sense of belonging.
Thirteen years of impact proves this works. Help us make 2026 our most creative and connected year yet!
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made