Our History

Shekinah Torbay (until recently called 'Project 58') was founded by a Torquay couple, Valerie and Shaun Bailey. In 2000 Valerie and Shaun felt a burden for the homeless people of Torbay and started a soup run, supported by local volunteers. This moved to a temporary drop-in centre and eventually the current premises were rented from Torbay Council. A derelict warehouse was transformed with money from the European Fund to become a vibrant daycentre.

This centre has grown to offer training and employment opportunities with an enthusiastic staff team and support from a variety of professionals in the local community. We also receive financial support and encouragement from a number of individuals and churches and a valuable team of volunteers (see above).

Since our beginnings we have tried to build good working links with other agencies in the bay and have found these essential for effective work with our service users. We have recently developed a close working relationship with 'The Shekinah Mission', a very similar organisation based in Plymouth, and have subsequently changed our name to 'Shekinah Torbay', as their sister company.

Valerie and Shaun have moved on to work elsewhere but have left a legacy that continues to grow.

Our History

What's New?!

!!!!!BIG NEWS!!!!!

Have a look at the 'News' section for information about the new hostel and our role within the new partnership. The main thing is that we are continuing our work, just based at a different building and with more resources...including the accommodation at the hostel. Watch this space for any more updates. We are sorry that this information has been so long in coming, but we were not permitted to release any information until recently.

Don't feel alone. Samaritans can be contacted anonymously on 01803 29 99 99. See 'News' for more info...

Comments on Shekinah Torbay

“I very much admire the work being done by Shekinah for the homeless and vulnerable. They offer a warm and friendly welcome that for many can be the start on the long road back to independence and well being.” The Rt. Hon. Adrian Saunders MP

'I really enjoyed the fishing trip and I would really like to go on something like that again, I got a lot of experience from it, it was a buzz catching the fish...I didn't think I’d catch something but when I did I was buzzing. I think the place runs ok, I need this place , it gives me stability.’ Billy

'This place has helped me out something rotten in the last years. Without this place I would be bad. I rely on the place. I am upset with paying 50p for dinner but it has scared off a lot of people who do have money and come for the wrong reasons. But they’ve never knocked me back for a dinner when I can’t pay.’ Leon

'I think it’s very very good and very helpful. I’ve looked after my health, and cleaned my teeth etc. I’m getting help to turn my life around, I’ve had 8 years of drink and drugs and I want to get out of it.’ Anon

"The staff are great. They try to give us a sense of confidence and belonging. They are supportive, easy to talk to, and because some of them have had problems of their own in their lives, they understand us. I think when you come to the project you have to want to help yourself, so the staff can help you. But with their support, anything's possible." Di

"The project is a valuable place for people in similar situations to me. If you are ready and willing to take help, while also working hard yourself, then there are people ready and willing to guide us. I have done so many things that I could never have imagined...You have given me the faith to believe in myself again." John

"It's been cool coming to the project. Everyone welcomed me with open arms. I first realised the project would be a sweet place to work knowing that everyone has a story to tell and to become part of that story and help people to start a new chapter in their lives. Just like they've helped me to start a new chapter in my life." Simon

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