Annual Recovery Walk returns to Derry this weekend

Hundreds of people are expected to come together in Derry this weekend for Recovery Walk NI 2026, an annual celebration of recovery, connection and community.

Taking place on Saturday, September 26 at 11am, the free event will aim to bring together people in recovery, families, friends, support organisations and members of the wider community to make recovery visible across the city.

Organised by local addiction recovery service, ARC Fitness alongside Northlands, Whiteoaks, Health for Life, DePaul, Developing Healthy Communities NI (DHCNI) and HURT (Have Your Tomorrow), Recovery Walk NI aims to celebrate those navigating recovery while also recognising the far-reaching impact addiction can have on individuals, families and communities.

The walk, which is sponsored by Derry Credit Union, with additional support from The National Lottery Community Fund, forms part of a wider programme of activity under ARC’s 2026 ‘Rewrite The Story’ campaign, which will see a series of public events take place across the city throughout the year.

The campaign aims to challenge the narratives and stigma that can surround addiction, while demonstrating that recovery can offer people the opportunity to write a new chapter for themselves, their families and their communities.

Gary Rutherford, founder of ARC Fitness, said: “Recovery Walk NI is always an incredibly powerful day because we see it bring together so many different people with one shared purpose. It’s about celebrating every person who is rebuilding their life, while also remembering those we have sadly lost and recognising the families and communities who walk alongside people through addiction and recovery.

“Recovery is about so much more than stopping substance use. It can mean rebuilding relationships, rediscovering your identity, reconnecting with your community and finding hope for the future. By walking through the heart of the city together, we’re making recovery visible. We want anyone who may currently be struggling to see that there is a community here for them, that support exists and, most importantly, that recovery is possible.”

The walk will begin at Ebrington Square before making its way through the city before returning to the square, where the celebrations will continue with live music, food and coffee, family entertainment and activities. Partner organisations will also be on hand throughout the event, offering information, support and opportunities to connect with local recovery services.

While the event is free to participate, organisers are encouraging anyone wanting to take part to register.

For more information about ARC Fitness, the ‘Rewrite The Story’ campaign or how to get involved, visit ARC Fitness online at: https://arcfitness.uk/