Scottish singer Lulu has spoken about the “courage, commitment and support” required to overcome addiction, ahead of her keynote speech at the Scottish Recovery Awards in Glasgow on October 9. The 77-year-old, who has been sober for over a decade, will share her personal journey with drug and alcohol awareness at the event.
Lulu’s Battle with Alcoholism
Lulu, born Marie Lawrie in Glasgow’s Dennistoun, rose to fame at age 15 with her debut single “Shout” in 1964. She has previously described herself as a functioning alcoholic and stopped drinking in 2013 after attending rehab. She kept her addiction secret from loved ones until she quit, and now emphasises the importance of celebrating those who have successfully recovered.
“I’m really honoured to be part of the Scottish Recovery Awards,” Lulu said. “Recovery is something that’s very close to my heart, and I know from my own experience that it takes courage, commitment and support. These awards are about recognising people who are changing their lives and helping others do the same. It’s important that we celebrate those achievements and remind people that recovery is possible.”
Scottish Recovery Awards Details
The event, organised by recovery clinic provider Abbeycare, marks its 20th anniversary and aims to become an annual fixture. Abbeycare CEO Paul Bowley said: “We are thrilled and honoured that Lulu has agreed to be our keynote speaker for the first ever Scottish Recovery Awards, which we hope will become an annual event. Having such a cherished Scottish icon share her own perspective on recovery will help to make this an incredibly powerful and memorable evening.”
Bowley highlighted Scotland’s high levels of drug and alcohol-related harm, adding: “It is vital that we take time to recognise the people working tirelessly to save lives. Abbeycare is proud to establish this event to mark our 20th anniversary, but we hope in future that the awards will be seen as belonging to the wider recovery community.”
Nominations Open Until August 14
Nominations for the Scottish Recovery Awards are open until August 14 and can be submitted online at scottishrecoveryawards.com. The event will celebrate individuals and organisations making a difference in addiction recovery across Scotland.
