At the Recovery College, we work within a framework called 6Rs Sustainable Self.  Working within a framework ensures we bring the principles of recovery to the learning environment, and the effectiveness of what we do can be measured.  This gives students reassurance that what we do is evidence based.

There are five things we believe that all people need in their lives, no matter who they are, how old they are or where they’re from.  We call them the 6Rs Sustainable Self factors: 

The 6Rs Sustainable Self framework is as follows:

Connectedness	Having good relationships and being connected to other people in positive ways. Characterised by: peer support and support groups; support from others; community.
Hope & Optimism	Having hope and optimism that recovery is possible and relationships that support this. Characterised by: motivation to change; positive thinking and valuing success; having dreams and aspirations.
Identity	Regaining a positive sense of self and identity and overcoming stigma.
Meaning	Living a meaningful and purposeful life, as defined by the person (not others). Characterised by: meaning in mental ‘illness experience’; spirituality; meaningful life and social goals.
Empowerment	Having control over life, focusing on strengths, and taking personal responsibility.