Operations Manager - Carsten Stidson

Carsten has been with the project since June 2007.  He is constantly busy with organisational work and building links with other local services, as well as managing the staff and "Moving on Crew".  Carsten gets to know our service users and has recently completed a diploma in addictions counselling.

He says, "It's about being a team, creating new partnerships and using "change talk" to make exciting results in people's lives".

Deputy Manager - Dougie Worthington

Dougie has worked at the project for the last 6 years.  His role predominently centres around keeping a peaceful environment.  He is able to remain very calm himself in difficult situations.  Dougie is a keen photographer and runs the photography course, "Project Self-Esteem".  This course has seen all kinds of people turn up for sessions, even those with very chaotic lives, as well as those who are usually very shy.  People on the course have grown in confidence and shown great pride in their work, as well as in themselves after being photographed.  The photography project has received funding from Awards for All and from The Leonard Laity Stoate Charity, enabling us to buy some excellent, professional standard equipment.

Dougie says, "There is nothing better than watching somebody turn their own life around, and I love working for the project as it offers hope where there is none...."

Keyworker and Nurse - Jennie Mcnulty

Jennie has been here since we first began.  In her role as nurse she treats minor complaints, re-dresses wounds and offers simple health advice.  Ill health is a common issue for our service users, therefore medical support is an essential part of our service.  Jennie has also acquired skills in harm minimisation advice and TB treatment and screening.

As a keyworker Jennie assesses people to get to know them and their areas of need, making appropriate referrals to drug & alcohol agencies, health services and housing providers.  Service Users continue to receive keyworking support whilst they are waiting to find accommodation, and can also receive "floating support" once they are housed, as Jennie will visit people in their home where appropriate. 

Jennie's day can involve a variety of things from washing the feet of an entrenched rough sleeper, to driving somebody to view a flat, to running a jewellery making class, to listening to someone who wants to talk about their problems.

Drama/ Activities Co-ordinator - Nikki Samuel-Stevens

Experienced dramatist Nikki brings a touch of flair to activities at the project.  She facilitates discussion groups and creative expression sessions, as well as working with the photography course and organising trips out. 

Nikki says, "I have seen so many clients benefit from what they have brought to and gained from these sessions.  They can be life changing and life affirming..."

Administrator / Fundraiser - Kate Smith

Formerly a keyworker, and a qualified social worker, Kate currently works as fundraiser at the project, as well as performing general administrative tasks.

It costs quite a lot of money to run the project each year.  There are essential costs like staff salaries, utility bills and other general running costs.  We do receive some donations from local people and churches, however, these are not yet anywhere near high enough to meet our costs.  We have therefore sought funding from charitable trusts and The National Lottery, as well as getting some financial support from local statutory services for the housing element of our work.

We currently receive funding from The Lloyds TSB Foundation, CLG and Church Urban Fund (See "links" for more information on these charitable trusts)

Please see our "Support Us" section if you wish to make a donation or support us in some other way.

We also have a treasurer, Frances Tilley, who deals with our finances but is based off-site.

Volunteers and Kitchen Team

We have a team of volunteers who are crucial to our successful daily operation.  The project provides breakfast and hot tea/coffee from 8am-10am for rough sleepers and a hot 3 course lunch for an average of 20 people every day.  This takes quite a lot of work and washing up...

We charge 50p for lunch (breakfast is free for rough sleepers).  This minimal charge helps people to practise managing their money, although people with no income may be let off this fee until their benefits are sorted out.

Much of our food is donated by Sainsbury's, who pass on their slightly damaged groceries, and by local people who drop off bags of food.  We often have to buy some of our ingredients to provide a decent meal, as well as milk, tea and coffee.  (For information on how to donate and what we need, please see the "Support Us" section).