Our founder Robert Smith has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours. This honour recognises his unwavering commitment to helping people heal from trauma, overcome addiction, and rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
When Robert set up GRACE in 2012, it wasn’t just about recovery. It was about what happens next.
GRACE was created to offer long-term aftercare, recognising that true healing goes beyond immediate treatment and must address the trauma, isolation and life challenges that often follow addiction.
Over the years, Robert has shaped GRACE into a trauma-informed community space where people can access counselling, peer support, life skills workshops and holistic care that meets emotional, social and practical needs.
Through initiatives like our Help Yourself Hub, which provides food, clothing and essential items in partnership with local supermarkets, we’re not just supporting recovery. We’re reducing waste, tackling poverty and creating real community change.
Robert’s vision has always been about more than aftercare. It’s about compassion, sustainability, inclusion and giving people the tools to move forward.
We’re so proud of this well-deserved recognition. Thank you to Robert and to all our amazing volunteers and staff who make GRACE what it is
