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I read with interest comments made by Prince William recently:  'We can do it. It's not insurmountable, this challenge. If anyone does become homeless, 'OK, here’s the way back, here’s the pathway.' My understanding is that Prince William has a five-year plan to build housing on royal land. This is to be applauded but is addressing homelessness simply about providing accommodation?

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Currently at the Care Centre we are providing food and support to approximately 60 people each day, with a volunteer recently saying what an incredibly eclectic group of people use the service. There are occasions when help is asked for to access accommodation, however mental illness is the greatest challenge.

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Issues range from anxiety and depression to schizophrenia and paranoia. Sadly, within this there may also be dual diagnosis issues with many clients also suffering from drug or alcohol addiction. 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health issue of some kind and the complexities of supporting our clients are considerable.

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Mental health services are stretched to the limit. According to the British Medical Association mental health services in England received a record 4.6 million referrals in 2022 (up 22% from 2019). I am sure there is a correlation between this increase and COVID as we slowly move out of the pandemic.

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So how does the Care Centre play its part? As we try to tackle this issue, the Care Centre is advertising for an Assistant Manager with mental health experience.

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We have recently redesigned our invite cards featuring a new Bible verse from Romans: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.  

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Patrick Regan writes in No Ceiling to Hope, 'I knew I had to stand with them – live, laugh and cry with them.' The work at the Care Centre can be incredibly challenging when supporting people with a multitude of complex needs, but I thank God for the dedication of the staff and volunteers and our amazing God of hope.

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Phil Ansell, Care Centre Manager

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The Care Centre weekly afternoon programme now includes a ukulele group on Tuesdays, a Christianity Explored discussion group on Wednesdays and an arts, crafts and model making group on Thursdays.

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If you would like some Care Centre invite cards to put in your bag or pocket and give to people on the streets, get in touch: 0121 766 6603 or office@birminghamcitymission.co.uk

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