Cllr Mark Jepson was at the Sobriety and Abstinence event at Beach Street Felixstowe in August. A day of fun, music and talks from inspirational speakers, talking about the JOYS of sober living and looking after mental health.

Speakers included Pride of Britain nominee, community builder, podcaster and recovery influencer, Sam Philips.
Cllr Jepson, Ward Member for Eastern Felixstowe, used funding from his Enabling Communities Budget (ECB) to support Sam and the event. East Suffolk Council’s ECBs support activities delivered by community, voluntary and social enterprise organisations.       

Mark has been really inspired by Sam’s journey and was keen to support the inaugural event. Despite appalling weather, a good number of people came to hear inspiring talks from people in recovery. Sam has been in recovery for nearly 4 years and has helped numerous people start the difficult journey. He established ‘Dare to Dip’ in 2020 having himself swum in the North Sea every day for one year, this group has grown in strength since.

Community groups wishing to apply for Enabling Community Budget funding should contact their district councillor or visit: https://www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/.../enabling-communities.../

Pictured: Cllr Mark Jepson and Sam Philips at ‘Bash at the Beach 2024’, Felixstowe