https://resoluteminds.co.uk/our-story/background/
ResoluteMinds CIC was founded by Rory Sloan, a Belfast native whose lived experience shapes the heart and mission of the organisation.
From the age of 14, Rory struggled with substance misuse and mental health challenges. Leaving school at 16, he found stability and purpose through fitness, which became a vital tool in managing his mental wellbeing. This passion led him to train as a Personal Trainer, with the aim of helping others improve both their physical and mental health. Rory also developed a strong interest in bodybuilding and began preparing for his first competitive show.
Four weeks before the competition, the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a halt. With the show cancelled and his employment lost, Rory’s mental health deteriorated significantly. During this period, he developed an eating disorder and relapsed into substance use, which escalated into a dependency on cocaine. This eventually led to full addiction and involvement in criminal activity. Shortly after his 21st birthday, Rory found himself facing serious charges and time in prison.
Following his release on bail, Rory made a conscious decision to leave the criminal lifestyle behind. While his recovery was not immediate and he continued to struggle with addiction for around a year, meaningful change began when he engaged with a restorative justice charity, completing a restorative justice programme that helped him understand the wider impact of his actions on his family and community.
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Rory also received critical support from Emmett Watters, whose guidance played a pivotal role in helping him address trauma and addiction. Rory openly acknowledges that he may not be here today without that support.
ResoluteMinds was created to turn lived experience into positive community impact. The organisation exists to support individuals facing mental health challenges, addiction, and social exclusion—offering hope, accountability, and practical pathways forward. Rory’s journey underpins a simple belief: recovery is possible, change is real, and everyone deserves the chance to rebuild their life.
