The clinical manager of addiction treatment provider Pathways has been named Substance Abuse Professional of the Year.

As part of the National Recovery Month observance in September, the Ministry of National Security, through the Department for National Drug Control, joined the Bermuda Addictions Certification Board to honour the island’s outstanding substance abuse professionals.

A ceremony was held at the Police Recreation Club in Prospect where Ms Lovell was honoured.

Runner-up honours went to Karla Trott, the clinical manager at Turning Point.

The event brought together practitioners from across Bermuda who support individuals and families working towards recovery.

Michael Weeks, the national security minister, said: “I am delighted to recognise Camily Lovell and Karla Trott for their exceptional dedication to helping people rebuild their lives.

“Substance abuse professionals play a vital role in the recovery journey — walking alongside those who are struggling, encouraging them and giving them hope.

“Their service strengthens our families, our communities and Bermuda as a whole.”

The awards ceremony highlighted the essential role of professionals in sustaining recovery efforts and echoed the message of Recovery Month that “with the right treatment, support and resources, people can and do recover”.

Pathways said in July that Ms Lovell has extensive clinical experience and a strong background in programme management, and that her approach prioritises “psychological safety, compassion and empowerment in every aspect of care delivery”.

The ministry and department thanked the Bermuda Addictions Certification Board for its partnership to celebrate the achievements of people working every day to address substance use and abuse and support long-term recovery.

• For information about recovery services in Bermuda, visitgov.bm/treatment-centres-substance-abuse