Ex-offender Alex tells the House of Lords how he turned his life around

An ex-offender who overcame his drug addiction and turned his life around has told his story in Parliament.

Alex Fishwick was told by doctors he would die if he didn’t turn his life around.

Alex, who battled substance dependency for more than 20 years and spent multiple spells in prison attended the House of Lords this month for the launch of the Ex-Prisoners Recovering from Addiction Working Group Report, set up to help people like Alex build sustainable futures.

After undergoing detox and being released from prison in 2017, Alex moved into supported housing in Preston, enrolling on an access to Higher Education course at Preston’s College.

He has also run sessions with more than 2000 young people in schools and youth centres, sharing his life story and highlighting the dangers drug and alcohol dependency brings.

Alex said: “I was privileged to share my story with a Minister and MPs at the House of Lords and I hope the insights I could give will help others on their journey to recovery.

“I hit rock bottom and realised I wanted to live, especially for mum who has always stuck by me. I knew I needed help and getting into supported housing and starting college was a big part of the process.

“The routine of Preston’s College was brilliant and I really enjoyed the learning.

“I was used to being shoved away from people but I felt welcomed and got a lot of support going back to study after so many years.

“I’ve loved working with young people and I know this is the area I want to build my career.”

Dr Lis Smith, principal and chief executive at Preston’s College, said: “Alex’s story is incredibly inspiring and we are proud of his continued success.

“He is an excellent student and has overcome many challenges.

“To be invited to share his experiences in Parliament is a massive achievement and we look forward to welcoming him back here as a graduate in a few years to speak to our learners.”

Alex will now go on to study a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Criminology at The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in September.