Essential Services

 Christ Church in Felling previously held a coffee morning but its priest, Tom Worsley, knew it could achieve more. After a chat with another Places of Welcome co-ordinator, he decided to revamp its offering by relaunching as a Place of Welcome.

It now opens its doors regularly as a warm, friendly community space with essential services for those in need.

“We offer weekly crafts and activities and food parcels to those requiring assistance.

People don’t feel ashamed about taking food parcels as some did queuing at a food bank. A number of the people have commented that not attending a food bank but a Place of Welcome which helps by giving food is making a difference to their confidence.

One man was very quiet and reluctant to talk when he first attended - now he is quite happy to talk to different people - he is now in his 50s and has suffered from the age of 18 with anxiety and depression. He tells people he credits his visits to us as being a great help as the volunteers are willing to listen and that helps him tremendously.  He still has anxiety issues but has improved so much.”