Local charity Moving On Inverclyde has launched Sycamore Hope, a website offering support, resources, and community for women in recovery.

Developed in collaboration with women in the local recovery community, Sycamore Hope responds to the reality that addiction affects women differently. Many women face unique barriers, including stigma, motherhood pressures, domestic abuse, and mental health challenges. The platform provides a safe, confidential space where women can access tailored information and find reassurance that they are not alone.

- Mothers feel especially stigmatised in recovery and are reluctant to engage in support (Gunn et al., 2018)

- The effect of substances on women’s lives are more extreme regarding reproductive health, general health, family relationships, and employment (Jones et al., 2024)

- Bringing women together to share experiences is crucial to their recovery journey, emphasising the importance for a gender-specific space (Lamb, 2022)

The Sycamore Hope website brings together a range of dedicated sections, including:

Women’s Voices – real stories from women in recovery, offering connection and hope

Support Directory – a comprehensive list of local and national organisations, helplines, and emergency contacts

Recovery Toolkit – practical self-care resources and guidance to build resilience and confidence

The Recovery Toolkit includes resources on areas such as:

Motherhood and Family Life – advice and support for balancing parenting and recovery

Healthy Relationships – guidance on recognising positive relationships and spotting warning signs

Mental Health – resources exploring the links between mental health and recovery for women

“Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Women often face additional challenges and stigma, which can make it harder to seek help. Sycamore Hope has been created as a safe, supportive space for women, by women, reminding them they are not alone and that recovery is always possible.” – Moving On Inverclyde Spokesperson

The story behind the name

The name Sycamore Hope is inspired by the iconic Sycamore Gap Tree, which was illegally felled in 2023 in an act that shocked and saddened people across the UK. For many, the tree had been a symbol of strength, shelter, and solace. Moving On Inverclyde is one of only two organisations in Scotland to receive a sapling from the historic tree as part of the Tree of Hope project, led by the National Trust.

Like the sapling, Sycamore Hope honours what has been lost, while holding space for what is still possible. Whether facing addiction, grief, burnout, or something harder to name, the platform invites women to take small steps forward, grounded in dignity, privacy, and hope. The sapling will be planted by Moving On Inverclyde in the future.

Accessing Sycamore Hope

The Sycamore Hope website is now live: www.sycamorehope.com

The platform is free, confidential, and available at any time.