HSE South West supports Cork city’s first Recovery Walk

Cork city’s first recovery walk, celebrating recovery from addition, will take place in the city centre on Sunday September 7.

HSE South West is pleased to support the event, which is part of International Recovery Month and which promises to paint the streets purple in a vibrant celebration of recovery from addiction.

This inaugural event is a collaborative effort led by the Cork Recovery Academy, alongside agencies including HSE South West, Cork City Council, An Garda Síochána, Cork Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force, Southern Regional Drug and Alcohol Taskforce, Cork City Partnership, Coolmine, Tabor Group, Cork Simon Community, Cork Alliance, Focus Ireland, and many others.

It is a key part of Recovery Month and aims to make recovery visible, challenge stigma, and celebrate the successes of individuals and families on their recovery journey.

The walk will begin in on St Patrick’s Street at midday, before arriving at Fitzgerald’s Park. This family-friendly event will culminate in an afternoon of inspiring speeches, entertainment, and community activities, designed to strengthen and highlight the vital work of ‘Recovery Communities.’

Other Recovery Month events include – a recovery run, health and fitness activities, personal development workshops, pop-up recovery cafes, all promoting recovery options and supporting services across Cork and Kerry.

David Lane, General Manager, HSE South West Social Inclusion, commented:

“In line with the HSE's aim to reduce health inequalities and improve access to services for vulnerable and excluded groups, this walk is a testament to the power of recovery and the strength of community. It’s an opportunity to walk side by side with those on their remarkable journey and remind them they are not alone”

Mark Wright, Cork Recovery Academy Coordinator and lead organiser of the event, said:

“We are delighted to bring the Recovery Walk to the South this year. It’s a long-overdue display of the positive and inspiring impact recovery has across Cork and Kerry. This walk is truly about building recovery communities, challenging stigma, and celebrating International Recovery Month. It’s a day for everyone in recovery, their families, and our entire community.”

Joe Kirby Manager, HSE General Manager in Cork South and West, added:

“This walk is a symbol of the solidarity and resilience of our recovery communities. It’s a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, and it thrives with the support of everyone – from individuals to entire communities.”

Event Details:

Date: Sunday, September 7, 2025

Location: St. Patrick’s Street, Cork City, concluding at Fitzgerald’s Park

Time: 12pm

Registration: Register in advance at : https://corkkerryrecoverywalk2025.eventbrite.ie/ .

The first 300 registrants will receive a free commemorative t-shirt.

Fitzgerald’s Park Event Highlights:

Speakers: Inspirational stories of Recovery from individuals and families with lived experience. We area also delighted to welcome Cork Lord Mayor Fergal Dennehy along with special guests on the day .

Entertainment: A special performance by the High Hopes Choir Cork, composed of individuals affected by homelessness, aiming to raise awareness of social issues within the community along with other local artists and entertainment .

Family Fun: Children’s entertainment, including face painting and the ‘Wobbly Circus and an Art Workshop.