Portrait exhibition celebrates people who have survived addiction

Photographer Darius Jéan said he wanted to show people coming “into the light”.

Darius Jéan A portrait of Darius Jéan. He has a beard, wears glasses and a black jacket. — Photographer Darius Jéan said he wanted to show people coming “into the light”.

A charity that helps people get their lives back on track after suffering from addiction is organizing a portrait exhibition to celebrate its anniversary.

Based in Bath, Developing Health & Independence (DHI) has been in business for 25 years, providing housing and drug and alcohol treatment for people in Somerset and Bristol.

From November 5 to 8, the Museum Of Bath At Work will host an exhibition with photos of people who have used the service.

Photographer Darius Jéan said of the portraits: “What I really wanted to encounter were people coming out of the darkness into the light.”

Support and stability

Mr Jéan has also used DHI’s service in the past.

“DHI supported me during a very vulnerable time in my life,” he said.

“They offered me the stability of a place in their supported accommodation, where I was encouraged to pursue education, ending with a degree from Bath Spa University.”

He said the idea behind the exhibition was to create a coffee table book celebrating 25 years of DHI by showcasing 25 service users.

Mr Jéan said: “I was very spontaneous at that moment and created something out of nothing.

“It feels exciting to be part of the 25th anniversary, to see such an incredible organization, which has impacted my life, continue as usual and surviving for 25 years is no easy task.”

Rosie Phillips said she enjoys watching people ‘gain their sense of place in the world’

Developing health and independence Rosie Phillips stands at a desk in a green dress. Her hair is up and she is smiling. — Rosie Phillips said she enjoys watching people ‘gain their sense of place in the world’

Laura, who is also featured in the exhibition, was addicted to crack, heroin and spice.

Her addiction led to a tragic explosion in her home, which landed her in prison.

When she was released, she was still substance-dependent, but DHI’s criminal justice team helped her get her life back on track.

Laura said: “DHI showed me that I didn’t have to hide what I had been through.

“They made me feel welcome and part of something, which helped tremendously in my recovery.”

Laura is now a peer mentor at DHI and leads support groups for others in DHI’s criminal justice service.

Rosie Phillips, who launched the charity in 1999, said she “loves the challenge”.

“Everyone we work with is struggling and left out in some way, and I love seeing people regain their sense of place in the world and regain their sense of self.”