An Evaluation of the Mutual Aid Facilitation Sessions Pilot Program, “You do the MAFS”

ABSTRACT

Although recovery has gained considerable momentum in recent years, pathways into recovery programs are less understood. “You do the MAFS” is a 6-session, peer-led group that educates service users about abstinence-based recovery and provides a gateway into mutual aid. Through a mixed methodological approach, this study found that attendance at “You do the MAFS” improved participant health and social functioning, increased mutual aid attendance and reduced substance use. An intervention such as this would be a useful addition to the substance misuse treatment sector as provision to make links to and increase support for those in recovery.

KEYWORDS:

• Facilitation
• mutual aid
• recovery
• social networks
• substance use

Acknowledgments

Dear Albert's “You do the MAFS” program would like to acknowledge the Leicester Recovery Partnership and Phoenix Futures for the support provided to the pilot and research study of “You do the MAFS.” Special recognition is also extended to all the participants willing to take part in the evaluation; our heartfelt thanks are extended to you all. Leicester Recovery Partnership delivers substance misuse services for people living in Leicester City and provides support for families and carers. Our partnership is made up of Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, Phoenix Futures, and Reaching People and aims to promote, encourage, and engage its service users into recovery, providing opportunities to make positive lasting changes in their lives. Dear Albert would also like to acknowledge the time and resources that have been provided by Phoenix Futures for the purposes of this evaluation, and particularly Laura Aslan from the research department for all her work and dedication.