Getting it Sorted on the Union Canal

Sorted offers a unique outreach service which is delivered within our communities across Edinburgh and Lothian. We are part of a network of support which includes recovery hubs, voluntary groups and GP Surgeries.  A partner agency will make a referral to The Sorted Project and we work together to deliver both individual and group support. We are also happy to accept self-referrals and work is tailored to suit individual needs. 

The Sorted Project launched Scotland’s first service user led recovery canal boat on the Union Canal in October 2019. This followed developing our work on the Union Canal through hiring a canal boat every week from Re-Union Canal Boats for a number of years. It was this experience that shaped our work and strengthened the case to raise funds for a new boat for our recovery community.  Our bespoke built wide beam canal boat called Panacea, provides opportunities for training, volunteering and peer support for people in recovery from addiction and the associated mental and physical health problems. 

We provide meaningful opportunities which focus on peoples’ strengths. Our participants become trained and qualified crew members and are instrumental in the design and delivery of our work.  Panacea provides a safe place for people in recovery to become stronger and better supported along what is often a long and difficult journey. We reduce isolation by providing a safe community of peers with lived experience of addiction and recovery, where they are listened to and understood.  

Panacea is a floating resource providing ever changing scenery, on water and in nature. We support people in one of the most peaceful and tranquil settings which begins right at the heart of our city.  The Sorted Project is well connected within the addiction and recovery community and we reach some of the most excluded people and areas along the Union Canal through strong established partnerships and networks with canal societies and voluntary groups.  

We have developed a much valued relationship with Linlithgow Union Canal Society.  We work with them each week and we are learning a variety of skills from boat engine maintenance, branch lopping and canal clean up, helping in the cafe, cleaning and looking after the boats, training and of course team work.  We benefit greatly from their knowledge and skills based on their many years experience running a well established canal society with a number of boats and a range of excellent facilities.  

If you see Panacea on the Union Canal, please do give us a wave!  

For up to date information visit our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/sortedproject/  or email karensorted@hotmail.co.uk