East Wharf Cottage (The Nelson Trust)

The Nelson Trust is a leading charity supporting individuals affected by substance use and multiple unmet needs across the South West of England and Wales. Each year, the organisation works with approximately 4,000 people, offering a trauma-informed, holistic approach to recovery that addresses issues such as domestic abuse, involvement in the criminal justice system and unresolved trauma.

Established in 1985 as a small residential rehabilitation centre in Stroud, Gloucestershire, The Nelson Trust has grown into a nationally recognised recovery service. It now operates four single-gender residential treatment centres offering abstinence-based programmes, alongside three move-on houses that support individuals transitioning into independent living.

In addition to residential care, the Trust runs women’s community services (nine women’s centres) and five social enterprises, including the Hub Academy, The Sober Parrot Café and a community garden. These initiatives are designed to empower individuals in recovery to build confidence, develop lifelong skills and reintegrate into their communities.

The Nelson Trust offers a clinically structured, trauma-informed treatment programme designed to support individuals in achieving abstinence and long-term recovery from substance use. The service uses a four-phase model that integrates psychological, emotional, and practical recovery work, tailored to each resident through a personalised care plan.

Treatment is delivered by qualified professionals and includes a range of evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and art therapy. Holistic therapies, including yoga, acupuncture, and nature-based wellness activities, complement the clinical programme.

Specialist interventions are available for individuals with complex needs, including co-occurring mental health conditions, histories of trauma, and experiences of sexual exploitation. Gender-specific parenting support and trauma-responsive care are embedded throughout the programme.

Residents engage in regular one-to-one counselling, psycho-educational groups, and therapeutic workshops. The programme also includes peer mentoring, volunteering, and accredited training to support reintegration and personal development.

Aftercare planning begins early in treatment, with up to 16 weeks of continued support and access to recovery housing and community services, ensuring a smooth transition into independent living.