For many years in my youth, I experienced life on the streets and struggled with addiction. I have now been in recovery for over 25 years and understand first-hand what it means to be hungry, unsupported, and overlooked. These experiences have shaped my commitment to addressing the urgent needs of vulnerable individuals in our community.

Despite societal progress, many people in this country continue to face barriers that prevent them from meeting their most basic needs. These challenges include poverty, addiction, mental health issues, domestic abuse, and systemic obstacles that limit access to essential support.

As someone in long-term recovery and guided by my faith, I believe we have both a moral and social responsibility to respond to these needs. We are called not only to recognize the challenges faced by others but to take meaningful action to address them.

In response to these needs, we established a community kitchen, serving an average of 40 individuals per session. Beyond providing nutritious meals, the kitchen offers a safe and welcoming environment where people from diverse backgrounds can connect, build relationships, and support one another. The initiative is designed to restore dignity, foster community, and provide ongoing practical and emotional support tailored to the needs of each participant.

Looking ahead to 2026, we are developing a supported tenancy programme to assist individuals who are unable to secure local housing due to systemic barriers, including women fleeing domestic violence. This programme will provide a deposit support scheme in partnership with landlords, alongside comprehensive wraparound care that connects participants to local organization's specializing in mental health, physical health, and emotional wellbeing.

Our vision extends beyond addressing immediate need; we aim to create sustainable pathways out of crisis, empowering individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity, stability, and hope.