'Wellness Running Club' takes place each week in West Park, Wolverhampton. In this article and short film, University of Wolverhampton film student Anthony Williams visits the project and speaks to the people involved, and finds out how it is supporting people recovering from addiction.

A simple idea to get moving outdoors is making a powerful difference to the lives of people recovering from addiction in Wolverhampton.

Founded by Run2Happiness with the support of SUIT (Service User Involvement Team) and Recovery Near You, the weekly ‘Wellness Running Club’ sessions in West Park provide a welcoming environment where people of all abilities can walk, run and connect with others, while improving both their physical and mental wellbeing.

OPPORTUNITIES

The sessions, led by Run2Happiness founder John Dixon (pictured below), have become particularly valuable for people in recovery from addiction and mental health issues. They create opportunities for people to take positive steps towards healthier lifestyles.

SUIT’s Warren Sutherland, who is himself an ex-service user, explained how the initiative first began through conversations around supporting people in recovery.

“We thought it'd be a good idea to get our clients to just walk around the park,” he said.

“Rehab is all about working on the mind, but there's so many different aspects to the mind. We get people to walk and talk and they don't realise it, but they are working on their recovery just by walking around and talking to each other.”

The greenery and beautiful natural environment of West Park plays an important role in the experience, helping participants relax, connect and enjoy being active.

RECOVERY

“Look at the environment. It's absolutely beautiful,” added Warren. “Subliminally, you are giving the message that you can have fun, you can have conversations without any form of chemical, and enjoy it and meet new people.”

The impact is evident in the stories of those who attend each week. One participant admitted they initially had no interest in running when introduced to the club through a recovery programme.

“When John said, ‘Do you fancy coming for a run?’ I was like ‘No!’” she laughed.

However, after attending sessions and starting with gentle walks around the park, their confidence began to grow.

“It's really enjoyable, and I've found that's pushed me now to do more walking. I walk a lot now, I very rarely drive my car.”

Participants also praise the encouragement provided by Run2Happiness founder John Dixon, whose belief in others helps people achieve goals they once considered impossible.

IMPOSSIBLE

“He believes in you before you do,” said volunteer Sam. “You'll sit there and say, ‘I can't do that,’ and he's like, ‘You can.’ He wants you to believe that the impossible isn't impossible.”

At the heart of the Wellness Running Club is a simple philosophy: take things one step at a time.

“My main thing when it comes to running is always ‘slow down’,” John explained. “If you can't run a mile, just run from here to that bench. Then walk to the next bench and run to the next bench.”

Run2Happiness is also supporting the Sport for Change Wolverhampton campaign, backed by the University of Wolverhampton and Wolves Foundation. Co-ordinated by ConnectSport CIC, the campaign sees local students promoting the health and social benefits of community sport projects across the city. More than 50 projects are expected to join the campaign by the end of 2026.has been able to expand its reach and connect with more people across the city.

John explained: “For me, Sport for Change Wolverhampton has helped me get my word out. We're like a collective of people who want to change the world. Now we've got more chance because of Sport for Change Wolverhampton.”

Through every walk, jog and conversation, Wellness Running Club is proving that positive change often starts with a single step.

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