Over 30 Years of Dedicated Recovery Support

Bjorn often referred to himself as a “serial relapser.” Despite repeated attempts at sobriety, he struggled to maintain abstinence until one night, while driving between Scarborough and Driffield, he suffered a minor stroke. In that moment, he experienced profound clarity and vowed never to drink again — a promise he kept for the rest of his life.

Determined to help others find the same freedom, Bjorn threw himself into service. He launched the first recovery helpline in Scarborough, established the Scarborough Recovery Group at Westborough Church, and offered sponsorship and support to others while running his business making Swedish clogs.

However, he soon realised a serious gap: there were almost no affordable treatment centres in the UK, and those that did exist catered only to the wealthy. Believing that “everyone deserves access to world-class treatment,” Bjorn set out to create his own.

To prepare, he travelled to Serenity Park in Little Rock, Arkansas, a pioneering recovery programme founded in 1972 by Joe McQuany, creator of the globally recognised Recovery Dynamics model and co-founder of the famous Joe and Charlie: The Big Book Comes Alive workshops. Joe became Bjorn’s mentor and close friend, visiting Scarborough several times over the years. Their shared vision — that addiction is a disease deserving of education, structure, and compassion — became the foundation of Ark House.

Upon his return to England, Bjorn opened his first centre — affectionately known as “Little Ark” — a modest six-bed facility above a tattoo parlour on Eastborough, Scarborough. Despite fierce local opposition and a rejected planning application, Bjorn refused to give up. After a high-profile appeal reaching the Secretary of State, permission was finally granted. “Little Ark” became a haven for recovery and quickly gained the trust of local social services, which began referring clients in need of affordable treatment.

Demand soon exceeded capacity, and Bjorn purchased the derelict Whitegates Hotel on Valley Road. Though fire-damaged and abandoned, he saw its potential. Once again, there were objections — but this time, local residents who had witnessed the positive impact of “Little Ark” rallied in support. The planning application was approved, and Ark House was born.

The renovation was a community effort. Former residents, local tradespeople, and the recovery community volunteered their time and skills. In 1999, Ark House opened its doors to its first residents, beginning a new chapter in Scarborough’s recovery story.

Initially offering 12 beds and later expanding to 30, Ark House became renowned for its compassionate care and commitment to recovery. For many years, it earned top commendations from regulators for its quality of care.