ABOUT US

Meet the Team

Our priority at acquiesce is to provide an independent service that is sleek and modern but also warm and caring.

Experienced Addiction Specialists

Our team of trained and experienced staff are all based onsite at our Bolton facility. Here at Acquiesce many of our team have personal experience of addiction and recovery, and are all dedicated to helping you recover from your addiction. Take a look below to read more about our team members.

MEET THE TEAM

Danielle
Robinson

SERVICE MANAGER

Adrian
Guffogg

RECOVERY PRACTITIONER

Tina
Mccoy MBPSSS

SENIOR PRACTITIONER

Mike
Burns

SUPPORT WORKER

Steven
Downs

RECOVERY PRACTITIONER

Lesley
Kelly

YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Carla
Guffogg

SUPPORT WORKER

Margaret
Mary

SUPPORT WORKER

Eleanor
Iannaccone

RECOVERY COACH

Danielle Robinson

CQC Registered Service Manager

Danielle began working in the field of addiction over 16 years ago, she has undertaken various roles – as an Administrator, Practitioner, Detox and Rehabilitation Lead, Case Manager and in her last role managed both the Brief Intervention and Harm Reduction Services within community services. At a young age early in her career Danielle recognised that working with individuals suffering from addiction was something that she had a real interest in.

Her first role was as an administrator and receptionist at an NHS community substance misuse service, from working on the reception Danielle found that meeting people suffering with addiction and hearing their stories gave her a real drive to want to help and from there she studied and qualified to be a practitioner. Danielle completed a diploma in Health & Social Care and gained her Substance Misuse Practitioners Awards and from there joined the Federation of Drug and Alcohol Practitioners register. Danielle spent over 10 years of her career practicing in various areas within the field, within NHS Harm Reduction Services, Arch Initiatives Criminal Justice Services, BiDAS Case Management Services, Lifeline and also Change Grow Live Brief Intervention Services and Residential Services.

“Working across such a broad spectrum of areas has allowed me to see that although the specific consequence for each individual may differ the common path of addiction sadly remains the same. Addiction is progressive and no one can successfully recover alone.”

Danielle developed her qualifications and completed these alongside working within addiction services. She became degree qualified by completing a BA Hons Combined Social Sciences with a specialism in Sociology. Danielle progressed to management and was able to start to learn how to plan service delivery to enhance patient outcomes, from there she was able to manage teams with a common goal and vision to help addicts to recover. Danielle is driven and dedicated to her work she has a genuine passion for this field and for helping people.

“I feel you need to have a specific nature to work within this field and I personally would not choose to do anything else. It is so rewarding to see a person’s life repair, to see them making positive improvements to break free from addiction and to see them get themselves and their lives back.” In her spare time, Danielle enjoys the gym, hikes, walks, yoga and spending time with her family. Danielle also loves eating out, trying different cuisines and shopping.

Adrian Guffogg

Recovery Practitioner

Adrian has occupied various roles within the field of addiction treatment and is a registered with the Federation of Drug and Alcohol Practitioners (FDAP). Following his own personal journey into recovery, he found a passion for helping others to do the same. He began working as a volunteer for community drug and alcohol services where he quickly recognised that this is where he would like to dedicate his efforts and turn this passion and motivation to help others into a professional capability and career.

Adrian studied to gain his diploma in Health and Social Care, Substance Misuse Practitioners Award and also certified as an addiction specific Behavioural Couple’s Therapist. Adrian’s progression in education, qualification and experience within the field led him to occupy the role of Psychosocial Practitioner for Lifeline, a leading provider of local authority addiction treatment services at that time. Whereby he was responsible for managing a large caseload of clients and supporting their pathways to recovery through evidence based psychosocial interventions delivered in both group and 1-1 settings.

“To watch and support an individual go from the lost, lonely and fearful place of addiction into a journey of recovery with a new and regained sense of hope, self-worth and direction is so rewarding and an honour and privilege to be a part of.”

Other roles included Adrian being recruited to be a key part of a small team that was implemented and commissioned by Bolton council to work with more complex individuals who were experiencing combined issues of substance misuse, mental health, criminal justice and housing. The role involved both front line client interventions and also the coordination of multiagency working. The team was recognised for its work and won an award for its services at the iNetwork awards 2017.

“I truly believe that provided with the right environment and the correct therapeutic support and guidance that any individual can move from the darkness of addiction into the light of recovery and live and enjoy life to their full potential”

Adrian is a certified FDAP Practitioner

Tina Mccoy MBPSS

Senior Practitioner

Tina is a member of the British Psychological Society and has a First Class, Double Honours Degree in Psychology and Community Studies from the University of Bolton including a Diploma in Counselling with Distinction. She has been a vital member of the Acquiesce team since the beginning and holds a strong passion for the field of addiction. Tina began her journey in this area with the Bolton Drug and Alcohol Service, where she gained vital experience and expertise working with addiction in a community setting. During this time, she served as a Psychosocial Intervention Practitioner before joining Acquiesce.

As our Senior Practitioner, she has extensive experience in co-ordinating the recovery journey of our residents and families affected by substance misuse and affiliated issues and we are so happy to have her on our team. Tina is a forward thinker and skilled in the delivery of a variety of interventions, techniques and approaches to support the recovery process. She is also an esteemed graduate member of the British Psychological Society and is talented in understanding the workings of the addicted brain. She refuses to let our residents go through the treatment programme without addressing each aspect of their behavioural issues. She is very committed to enabling people to grow and attain effective long-term personal development. Along with her other qualifications Tina is a Member of the Federation of Drug & Alcohol Practitioners (FDAP) and holds an NCFE Substance Misuse and Mental Health Award.

“Having the privilege of helping individuals and families through the recovery process is one of the most rewarding feeling I have ever experienced.”

Tina is absolutely devoted to helping our residents achieve sobriety, and to educate and direct their affected families through the healing process. She firmly believes that everyone’s path to recovery is unique and this is fully embraced, in the treatment programme, here at Acquiesce. She is often heard telling others, “this is not a job ……... it is a calling.”

In her free time, Tina loves travelling with her family and going on long walks with her adorable Yorkshire Terrier, Benji. She enjoys yoga and meditating and you will often find her sharing her passion of meditation and positive affirmations with the residents.

Tina is a certified FDAP Practitioner

Mike Burns

Support Worker

As a vital member of the team, we are pleased to have Mike provide valued support for the residents of Acquiesce. Mike first discovered his purpose and passion for helping others when he joined Acquiesce as a volunteer. In his role as a Support Worker Mike is dedicated to assisting people overcome addiction and supporting them to rebuild their lives on a foundation of health, well-being and spirituality. Through an individualised process, Mike collaborates with his team daily to provide the best possible care and support.

Currently in recovery himself he brings a solid understanding of addiction recovery, a depth of creativity in supporting individuals in addiction, and a deep, warm compassion and interest in helping people achieve their potential. Mike has completed a Concept Counselling Course and is a qualified SMART facilitator. It is his goal to empower residents in supporting them as they search for connection, hope, fulfilment and success. The residents of Acquiesce greatly benefit from his expertise and skill throughout their journey of healing and recovery.

“I feel honoured to have the opportunity to be working in this field helping other individuals with many of the same struggles I faced in early recovery. Furthermore, he believes that recovery is a dynamic and evolving process that incorporates structure, honesty, open mindedness, humour and adventure.”

When he is not working Mike enjoys watching football, dog walking and spending time with his wife and children.

Steven Downs

Recovery Practitioner

Steven began his career in the field of addiction treatment services in 2011 as a volunteer, working for ADS in Wigan. Steven’s passion and dedication was quickly rewarded by gaining the position of mentor coordinator. “Having battled addiction myself it soon became apparent that I had found my vocation in helping others to rebuild their lives and become the best version of themselves”

Prior to joining the Acquiesce team in June 2018 Steven worked for the Community Drug Team in Bolton for six years, working for Arch Initiatives, Lifeline Projects, CGL and the Big Life Group. During this time Steven worked with clients at all levels, ranging from brief advice, to the most vulnerable in the community as part of the assertive outreach team. Whilst working for the Community Drug Team Steven was tasked with many specialist projects, including setting up, and establishing SMART recovery, building relationships with local employers, and founding a new service user group which organised dry nights in the local area.

“Learning to socialise in a safe space is an integral part of the recovery process. I am very proud of the part I played in building a thriving recovery Community here in Bolton.”

Steven is a Member of the Federation of Drug & Alcohol Practitioners and degree level qualified. Additionally Steven hold 2 diploma’s one in Health and Social Care and another in Counselling Concepts. Steven’s journey with Acquiesce commenced in January 2017 as a sessional worker employed to deliver the SMART Recovery programme:

“For me Acquiesce was like a breath of fresh air, offering 12 step combined with a variety of CBT approaches including SMART recovery. The prospect of working in an urban setting with a unique programme provided me with the opportunity to use my experience and skillset to the best advantage”Steven is the latest member to join the Acquiesce team and like his fellow colleagues he is devoted to creating a safe, caring environment, where our residents can feel welcomed, enabling them to flourish in their recovery.Steven’s passion for recovery is infectious and he is always prepared to go the extra mile for the residents. Steven has a personal love when it comes to expanding his mind on the latest addiction research.

Steven is a certified FDAP Practitioner

Lesley Kelly

Lesley Kelly is a fully insured Yoga Instructor qualifying under the bodies of Yoga alliance and Independent Yoga Network and teaches in the North West.

Lesley was first drawn to meditation and working with the breath to deal with stress and an inability to feel centred and calm. This naturally lead her on to her yoga path and Lesley focuses deeply on the relation, steadiness, and harmony of body and mind that yoga has to offer.

Yoga helps you reconnect with thoughts through stilling the mind to observe what you are thinking. The breath work helps the nervous system because if you can connect and slow down the breath, messages to the brain say ‘I am calm’.

The physical, slow and deliberate movements offered in a Yoga class brings you back into awareness of your body and all the above help to anchor you into the present moment.

Lesley teaches yoga to staff and clients working in private and NHS mental health in the surrounding area and finds it a meaningful way to deliver her classes. Lesley does a lot of work in the community and also teaches in Universities, behavioural units, mental health units and the bigger gyms like DW and Total Fitness.

Carla Guffogg

Carla shares Acquiesce’s passion for helping people affected by addiction.

Carla studied at Preston College where she gained qualifications in Mental Health, Well-being and Substance Misuse. In recovery herself, her journey with Acquiesce started when she began to volunteer in order to help individuals on the road to recovery. Carla never gave up on her dream of pursuing a career within the field of addiction and recently joined the team as a Support Worker.

Her love of assisting people has provided her with a depth of expertise in helping our residents reach their potential. Carla has volunteered for the Amy Winehouse Foundation and the Resilience Project. During her time as a volunteer she has helped both children in schools and recovering individuals to build resilience and happiness.

Treatment at Acquiesce is tailored to each resident’s individual needs and Carla strongly believes.

“Everyone who enters our treatment programme is capable of positive change.”

As part of her role Carla strives to facilitate the resident’s transition into the life of recovery and guide them on to a path of independence. Her motivational abilities are valued by the residents and staff alike.

When she is not working Carla enjoys the gym, long walks, nature and spending time with family and friends. Acquiesce is grateful to have a passionate and dedicated member on the team who is always on hand to guide our residents on their journeys to recovery.

MargaretMary

MargaretMary’s feels her personal journey and decision to move into recovery saved her life and led her to discovering her passion for working with people who suffer with issues of addiction

MargaretMary has a vast range of knowledge and experience having worked across multiple areas of recovery. Some of which being facilitating SMART Recovery and being an active member within mental health forums. Additionally, MargaretMary has an excellent understanding and experience of the 12 step fellowships.

“At Acquiesce it is great to be working as a support worker and to be part of a supportive team. I am living proof that choosing recovery works”

MargaretMary has a number of hobbies, she enjoys listening to audiobooks, going to the cinema, going to the theatre and dancing.

She has an interest in human politics and makes it her mission to learn something new every day.

Eleanor Iannaccone

I started volunteering at Acquiesce and immediately fell in love with the field of addiction treatment. During my time volunteering, an opportunity arose for a Recovery Coach position. I embraced this opportunity and applied for the role. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn and progress.

My position as Recovery Coach is inspiring and I am dedicated to my role and I ensure that the clients always come first. I worked in the sport sector before embarking on a new journey coaching clients on their path to recovery, I wouldn’t change it for the world. I find it so interesting and rewarding working with and supporting clients suffering from addiction and being able to be a part of their journey is so heart-warming. I am devoted to making a safe and nurturing environment for the clients and I always make sure that I am ready to assist them with their daily needs. I consider myself to be an integral part of every client’s success and well-being.

“Seeing how clients grow and develop is very gratifying. Knowing that you have been able to make a difference to someone’s life, for the better, is what makes my job so rewarding.”

Every client that walks through the door is unique and has their own story, however, no one can recover from addiction alone.

I am a Smart Recovery Facilitator and being able to pass my knowledge on to help others is so fulfilling. When I am not working, I enjoy walking, photography, spending time and playing games with family, seeing my friends, eating out and travelling.

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chris nicholson

2021-09-21

I went to acquiesce once I had exhausted every avenue that I had. I was desperate and in need of help. They gave me all the answers that I'd been looking for. If I hadn't gone to acquiesce I honestly do not know where I would be today. Thankfully I did and I'm now writing this having not used any mind altering substance for 21 months. The staff at acquiesce are fantastic. They have an amazing understanding of your situation and are more than willing to help. I would like to give Steve Downs a mention as he really did help me a lot, however all staff more than played their part! If you are reading this thinking there is no way out please give them a call you've got nothing to lose! Thank you again all at acquiesce.

ann-marie henderson

2021-09-20

I would like to say that since my mum left your service in March of this year, she has gone from strength to strength in her recovery. Mum has only ever spoken of the positives she found at Acquiesce, the wonderful staff the invaluable lessons she learned around the seriousness of addiction and to date she still pays gratitude to you all daily I would have no hesitation in recommending Acquiesce to anyone needing this kind of intervention. So may I say a huge thank you to you all for giving my family back the wonderful funny, caring lady we have always known and loved. You didn't just save her life, you saved ours too, and we will never be able to repay what you have done for us all x

Martin Corbett

2021-09-19

I'm few weeks out of acquiesce rehabilitation, i can't begin to tell everyone how much these people have helped me. They have given me a new life, all the staff really do care and give above and beyond, more advice and commitment than you could ever expect. Tina was my practitioner and she is so caring and gentle it puts my faith back into humanity. Even when I left she was at the end of the phone if needed. Well done to you all, and thanks for your support and patience. An extra special thanks to Margaret Mary for her time and the guidance she showed me. Once again thank you.

Patricia Dyminski

2021-08-25

I am the parent of an addict. Not something I ever thought I would be saying when I held my son on the day he was born. Over the last 5 years his addiction steadily increased and despite community rehab it just wasn't enough to help and support him. So I started to explore in patient rehab and after contacting many facilities I spoke to Acquiesce and from that day I started to feel hope. My son went into Acquiesce for 3 months and during his time his keyworker contacted me every week. He filled me in on how my son was doing, made me feel part of the process, explained each stage patiently, gave me constant reassurance whilst being honest and made me realise I was going through this too and I was equally important. If ever I got upset he would always check up on me the next day and he made me laugh something I hadn't done a lot of for a long time. I cannot thank him enough for making me see my son had a future. I have no hesitation in recommending Acquiesce and I thank God I found this amazing facility with amazing staff. Pat

Claire T-Smith

2021-07-03

Before entering Acquiesce I had reached rock bottom and on the verge of losing everything. I had thought about rehab a few times in the past but was too scared and looking back I wasn’t ready to accept help at that time. I didn’t see myself an alcoholic just a heavy drinker with reasons to be so! Alcoholic people in my eyes had nothing left in life just a park bench or shop doorway but this is so not true. The months, or even looking back, years before the decision to enter rehab my drinking had spiralled out of control and I was wrecking everything I held dear to me. I knew it was a do or die situation and I’m so glad I chose to do. Leaving my husband on the morning of going into Acquiesce was the hardest and scariest moment ever but the best decision made. The very instant you meet the staff you have met your saviours and you are immediately felt welcomed. Everyone is there for the same reason no matter your background, upbringings or substance you learn it is the same disease you all share. The small group sessions make it easier to bond together and you learn so much about everything especially who you are without the demon. I want to thank each and everyone of the practitioners who work tirelessly and effortlessly to listen and help no matter the time. Steve, Tina, Carla, Ellie, Margaret Mary and Lesley, thanks for being so caring and empathetic to us all. Also thank you for your patience and sense of humour as you certainly needed it with us lot 😆 I have been given a new lease of life in sobriety and the strength to do it! I miss you all and hope to see you soo soon in the after care groups xx

Alex Bright

2021-06-29

As a 19-year-old, making the decision of going to Rehab was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. After 28 days of treatment, I can now say it was one of the best. All sessions at Acquiesce are carried out in groups of six which creates a family feel and builds a sense of trust amongst everyone. It also allows the practitioners time to focus on each individual client, so you're never feeling alone. At Acquiesce you learn about the disease that is addiction, cravings, gratitude, tools the list is endless. The sessions are delivered in a fun and engaging way being tailor-made to every group. I have learnt how to connect with my emotions again and have more self-esteem which was non-existent when I arrived at Acquiesce. I was given Tina as my personal practitioner who is one of the kindest hearted people I ever met, has gone above and beyond for me. Another practitioner at the centre is Steven who I will always be grateful for, who has supported me every step of the way and is a true inspiration. Words cannot describe my experience at Acquiesce. Having the courage to come to Acquiesce has allowed me to find myself again. If you're struggling with any form of addiction have the courage to accept you need help. The first step of changing your life is the hardest but it one you will never regret. Alex

Chris Deveney

2021-06-21

I waited until I'd been out of Acquiesce for a month before posting this review. I left rehab enthused for the life I could have; not just free from addiction but happy, fun and purpose filled too. I'm happy to say that what I was taught is not just theory - it works in the real world! I'm living my best life after years of failing by myself. The staff at Acquiesce are amazing and teach you the serious stuff in a relaxed environment. I've never laughed as much as I did in rehab! The mixed approach to recovery mean that there's something in there that everyone can relate to and, if you do what is suggested, it can work for you too. I'd recommend Acquiesce to anyone. It has changed my life for the better and it can do the same for you too.

Gary

2021-06-20

After being an addict for 23 years I thought I had no future , I thought my life would be drink and drugs until it eventually killed me,I was suicidal as for 23 years I was totally powerless against my addiction it had destroyed my life and taken everything from me I just couldn’t stop, then at the lowest point of my life I decided to give life itself one last chance.after looking around I decided on ACQUIESCE as there program seemed much better than others I’d seen, well coming to ACQUIESCE was the best decision I’ve ever made in my life , I’m now clean and sober and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been, after 23 years of addiction I couldn’t even dream of this, ACQUIESCE has changed my life forever, I now have a purpose in life, I Can full fill my dream of a happy clean and sober life without being controlled by cocaine and alcohol, this place truly works miracles with you, the staff are amazing there knowledge is immense and they deliver it the best way possible, they make you feel at home and very welcome and cannot do enough to help you, the amount of knowledge and tools they learn you is quite amazing and allows you to totally become substance free forever, they help to fix any mental health issues, confidence issues, they address every part of your life that will help you become and stay clean for the rest of your life, plus they offer aftercare and show you meetings you can go on to help you along your journey to abstinence, I would like to thank all the staff at ACQUIESCE for playing their part and changing my life forever, I must give a special thanks to Ste my practitioner this guy will never know how much he has done for me, this job is stevens calling in life he is a true life saver, he goes above and beyond every day working through breaks to help you , his advice and knowledge is priceless and he is a true inspiration ( this guy deserves a pay rise) I couldn’t have done this without Ste and I will be eternally grateful to him, come to ACQUIESCE with an open mind and willingness to learn and you can change you life forever just as I have done, so once again massive thanks to everyone at ACQUIESCE you work miracles everyday and I will never forget what you have done for me #best rehab in the world, love you all from GARY

Mark English

2021-06-17

Before I came to Aquiesce I reviewed several rehabilitation centres and Aquiesce seemed like it would be a good fit for me. The groups are smaller than most centres (6) so there is more personal attention. I have just completed a 28 day program and I feel brand new. The wealth of knowledge and tools they arm you with for your recovery and life is vast. The support is fantastic from all the staff. Ste was my practitioner and he went above and beyond to make sure I completed my program (supporting me late at night) because in the 1st week I had personal issues which he helped me through. If you chose to come here then come with an open mind and a will to change and I promise you it will change your life.

Leigh Vickers

2021-06-13

Well, what can I say, my time here has been absolutely amazing. From looking around at multiple different treatment centres, Acquiesce was the one that stood out for me. The set up they have is utterly genius whereby they have a treatment centre and the living accommodation separate, this breaks everything up. I could not have chosen a better place. From my very first port of call up until my arrival day the staff kept in touch with me the whole time to see how I was and if I had any questions which I feel was very nice of them to do so as it made me feel comfortable on my arrival date. 28 days doesn't seem long enough but my God, the staff, support workers and most of all, the Practitioners, certainly know what they are doing with every single individual no matter what reason they are here for. I came here as a quiet shy, lost young man and within 4 weeks and a lot of work spent on me by my practitioners I am now a very confident strong man who is at the happiest I have ever been in my life. I will be forever thankful to the team here from start to finish, they have been my rock. Pulled me back together on my down days, laughed with me on my up days and because of the support and knowledge I have received I'm walking out of here very proud with my held held high. I seriously could not recommend Acquiesce enough, and they will without a doubt be at the heart of my recovery. To Tina, Steve, Ellie, Carla, Lesley, Adi, Danielle and Margaret Mary. I will be grateful to each and everyone of you from start to finish, I could not have done it without you all, so THANK YOU so much. Will miss you all loads The future for me is bright and clear Much Love Leigh X

ABOUT US

Meet the Team

Experienced Addiction Specialists

MEET THE TEAM

Danielle Robinson

SERVICE MANAGER

Adrian Guffogg

RECOVERY PRACTITIONER

Tina Mccoy MBPSSS

SENIOR PRACTITIONER

Mike Burns

SUPPORT WORKER

Steven Downs

RECOVERY PRACTITIONER

Lesley Kelly

YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Carla Guffogg

SUPPORT WORKER

Margaret Mary

SUPPORT WORKER

Eleanor Iannaccone

RECOVERY COACH

Danielle Robinson

CQC Registered Service Manager

“Working across such a broad spectrum of areas has allowed me to see that although the specific consequence for each individual may differ the common path of addiction sadly remains the same. Addiction is progressive and no one can successfully recover alone.”

Adrian Guffogg

Recovery Practitioner

“To watch and support an individual go from the lost, lonely and fearful place of addiction into a journey of recovery with a new and regained sense of hope, self-worth and direction is so rewarding and an honour and privilege to be a part of.”

Tina Mccoy MBPSS

Senior Practitioner

“Having the privilege of helping individuals and families through the recovery process is one of the most rewarding feeling I have ever experienced.”

Mike Burns

Support Worker

Steven Downs

Recovery Practitioner

“Learning to socialise in a safe space is an integral part of the recovery process. I am very proud of the part I played in building a thriving recovery Community here in Bolton.”

Lesley Kelly

Lesley Kelly is a fully insured Yoga Instructor qualifying under the bodies of Yoga alliance and Independent Yoga Network and teaches in the North West.

Yoga helps you reconnect with thoughts through stilling the mind to observe what you are thinking. The breath work helps the nervous system because if you can connect and slow down the breath, messages to the brain say ‘I am calm’.

Carla Guffogg

Carla shares Acquiesce’s passion for helping people affected by addiction.

“Everyone who enters our treatment programme is capable of positive change.”

MargaretMary

MargaretMary’s feels her personal journey and decision to move into recovery saved her life and led her to discovering her passion for working with people who suffer with issues of addiction

“At Acquiesce it is great to be working as a support worker and to be part of a supportive team. I am living proof that choosing recovery works”

Eleanor Iannaccone

“Seeing how clients grow and develop is very gratifying. Knowing that you have been able to make a difference to someone’s life, for the better, is what makes my job so rewarding.”

Danielle
Robinson

Adrian
Guffogg

Tina
Mccoy MBPSSS

Mike
Burns

Steven
Downs

Lesley
Kelly

Carla
Guffogg

Margaret
Mary

Eleanor
Iannaccone