So where to begin, I arrived at St Paul’s hostel in early 2009, after experiencing some very tough times, I had lost my eldest sister in 2005 and after this my life changed. I felt lonely and afraid and because of this I cut my family out of my life.

It was a hard situation for me as I had a very privileged upbringing and in a way thought nothing could go wrong.

I arrived at St Paul’s, had no confidence, self esteem or any motivation. It was a long road ahead but one that St Paul’s was willing to walk with me.

I had tough times in St Paul’s I got in with drugs but with the help of Shaun an external counselor, I managed to address these issues and worked weekly with him to address anger I had built up.

I was assigned a key worker Steve, at first I had heard horror stories of him and thought oh no!! I don’t want him helping me, but how wrong were those rumor... ]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:35:01 GMT
The following sample wording can be used if you would like to leave a legacy to St Paul’s Hostel.

The suggested wording to leave a share of your estate (residuary legacy) is:

“Subject to the payment of my debts, funeral and testamentary expenses, I give (the whole/ (insert percentage value) of my estate not otherwise disposed of by this my Will to St Paul’s Hostel of Hillborough, Tallow Hill, Worcester WR5 1DB , registered charity number in England and Wales 1043921, for the general purposes of St Paul’s Hostel, and I declare that the receipt of their Treasurer or other proper officer shall be a full and sufficient discharge.”

“I give free of tax to St Paul&rsqu... ]]>Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:22:04 GMT
If you would like to donate furniture then contact our Donation Coordinator.
 - Mobile 07527 323 715
 - Email resettlement@stpaulshostel.co.uk

Some examples of the items we collect are:

• All working white goods 
• Tables/chairs 
• Wardrobes
• Drawers  
• Side tables
• TV's
• Beds  
• Lamps

Please ensure they are in good condition. We will arrange a convienent time to come and collect your goods.

This project is entirely staffed by volunteers.

]]>Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:18:04 GMTTue, 15 May 2012 17:59:48 GMTTue, 15 May 2012 17:59:44 GMTThu, 17 May 2012 23:50:44 GMTSat, 05 May 2012 05:51:36 GMTTue, 15 May 2012 18:00:08 GMTYou will get breakfast, snack (not charged to rent) and a home cooked evening meal.

]]>Fri, 04 May 2012 02:32:03 GMTMon, 16 Apr 2012 14:15:03 GMTDriver: Good Soil Project: Tuesday and/or Thursday, morning and/or afternoon, 1 1/2 hrs.
9.30 am pick up vehicle from hostel, take clients to GSP at Top Barn Farm.
2.30pm pick up vehicle from hostel, pick up clients from GSP, and cakes from St Johns. Take back to hostel.
CRB required and expenses given.
]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:36:57 GMTObserving: This is not really volunteering, more an opportunity to observe what hostel staff do over a 2 hr period, usually in the evening. This can be done up to 2 evenings a week for 4 weeks. A CRB is not required as you are never alone with the clients.

]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:48:18 GMTFundraising Group:This group meet 4-5 times a year. The group initiates ideas for raising funds for our clients and with our clients. From coffee mornings to the annual Big Sleep Out or sponsored Sky diving!

]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:50:18 GMTShift support Worker: One day or one afternoon a week. You could be the 4th member of staff in our busy hostel office. You take on the same responsibilities, do the same tasks as the regular staff. This enables keyworkers to go out with a client, or catch up with admin. You will gain good work experience with this client group.
CRB required and expenses given, and supervision. ]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:53:07 GMTBefriending: This is required once a week, for up to 2 hrs. You meet one to one with a resettled client, usually for tea and cake in a cafe in town, but it is flexible, according to what the client wants and needs. You are never asked to go to the client's home. This role is more involved in a client's life, and requires monitoring. You meet with the Volunteer Coordinator regularly, and are asked to send in Visit Sheets after every visit. Activities that have been done are bowling, walking, going to the cinema, driving out to cafes, exploring other towns, climbing mountains, even a trip to London!

We have been certified by the Mentoring and Befriending Foundation as an Approved Provider.
Training and supervision given, CRB required (we apply for it) and expenses given. ]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:59:56 GMT
]]>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:14:58 GMT ]]>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 11:23:06 GMTSt. Paul’s Hostel, 1977 – 2012.

When St. Paul’s Hostel first opened its doors to Worcester’s rough sleepers it was in the former vicarage of St. Paul’s Church, hence the name. This building was once the home of Studdert Kennedy, the famous ‘Woodbine Willy’, and Vicarage Court now stands on the site.

We opened on March 1 1977; we have kept the name, and also our unique way of working with the homeless, for over thirty years.

In the beginning, St. Paul’s was an initiative of the Worcester Council of Churches, and was a response to the large number of homeless people sleeping rough on Worcester’s streets. In those early days, the hostel was staffed entirely by volunteers; we had over 100 of them by the time of the second AGM in 1979. Many were recruited from local churches, and Christian people continue to be a mainstay of the volunteer rota and the hostel’s management committee and today we have in exc... ]]>Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:40:10 GMTHow do I make a donation in memory of someone?

'In memory' donations are a positive way to celebrate a life while helping St Paul’s Hostel to make a difference to the lives of the homeless in Worcestershire.

A donation made in memory of a loved one would  allow St Paul’s Hostel to offer support to people who are homeless and who need help with housing needs, and to give them the wherewithal to rebuild their lives by helping with communication skills, budgeting, health and food handling matters and assists them to turn their backs against substance dependencies.
Making a donation in memory of a loved one

If you would like to give in memory of a friend or relative:

• You can make the arrang... ]]>Tue, 01 May 2012 15:38:19 GMTLots of different people volunteer at St Paul's Hostel! And we have a range of volunteering opportunities to suit a wide variety of skill sets and interests, and to fit the time you have to offer E.g. those who help with meals come in twice every three months, but those who befriend might see residents weekly. We attract people from many walks of life; students needing experience, employed people, those looking to change their employment, people with a vague desire to help, those wanting to give something back, ex-clients, from bin men to corporate directors!
  
  We are looking for enthusiasm, reliability, open-mindedness, and a sense of humour is always helpful! ]]>Wed, 16 May 2012 16:17:15 GMT- Helping serve and clear up the evening meal within the hostel
  - Befriending clients to assist them to build new social networks especially when they are ready to move out of the hostel.
  - Organising and helping with social events/life skills activities for and with the residents
  - Fundraising—a specific group which meets to plan and organise events.  
  - Shift Support
  ]]>Tue, 08 May 2012 17:01:35 GMTSt. Paul’s Hostel was started by volunteers in March 1977 in response to the high numbers of people (specifically men) sleeping rough.
  Volunteers still play a vital role in providing these services, and are highly valued by the charity. We really appreciate it when people are willing to give their time! ]]>Fri, 18 May 2012 19:33:25 GMTThere are many ways to get involved with St Paul's you could:
  
   - Take on one of the many volunteering roles
   - Fund raising
   - Make a donation, this could be a one off payment or monthly payment
   - Legacy giving ]]>Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:27:56 GMTSt Paul's Hostel was awarded Level A provider status from Worcestershire Supporting People in July 2010, and have maintained this status in 2011 and 2012.
  ]]>Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:05:56 GMT
  
  Substance Misuse Link Worker
  
  

  “Support for people who are homeless or vulnerably housed”

  • A County-wide outreach service
  • Harm Reduction and Brief Intervention advice
  • Acts as a liaison between clients and services.
  • Works in Partnership with other agencies for the benefit of the client.
  • This year 2012 the Big Sleep Out will be held on the 21^st and 22^nd July and again will be held on College Green, Cathedral.  Details can be obtained from Lisa Richards on admin@stpaulshostsel.co.uk whereby sponsorship / registration forms are available.  We are looking forward to an even bigger and better sleep out this year and hoping to raise lots of money for our projects within St Paul’s Hostel.

     We will be holding a quiz during the evening with prizes, music, evening supper and breakfast is included for people who sleep out.

     

    ]]>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:41:52 GMTVolunteer Opportunities 2012

    Evening Meals:  Join a team, each team rota’ed to work two weeks every three months, individuals asked to work 2 nights. Help serve the meal, and wash up afterwards.

    Befriending:  Once a week, for up to 2 hrs. Meet one to one with a resettled client. Usually have tea and cake in a cafe in town, but is flexible, according to what the client wants and needs. Training given, CRB required and expenses given.

    Driver: Good Soil Project: Tuesday and/or Thursday, morning and/or afternoon, 1... ]]>Thu, 10 May 2012 01:04:24 GMTSkydive
     
    With the support and organisation from www.skylineparachuting.co.uk, 3 members of staff from St Paul’s Hostel have planned a skydive, in July 2012, in order to raise as much money as possible for St Paul’s Hostel.  This is a big challenge as we are jumping freefall (tandem) from 10,000 feet.

    If anyone is interested in joining Karen, Amanda & Karen in this unique and unforgettable experience and think they may be able to raise a minimum of £395.00 you are more than welcome.  This requires a £70 deposit. St Paul’s Hostel for the Homeless is a registered Charity and relies very much on funds and donations from the general public and organisations.

    ]]>Wed, 16 May 2012 15:32:02 GMTKey Worker from the Hostel wrote this case study with the permission of their client
    
    I first met Mr (A) some years ago, he was an entrenched rough sleeper who had a huge drug habit – which he funded through begging.  This resulted in Mr (A) becoming the first person in Worcester to be issued with a CRASBO.

    When Mr (A) first booked into the hostel he had a severe DVT and was on warfarin injections.

    Mr (A) was referred to a visiting drug agency (Turning Point) to address his drug problem; he attended these meetings on a regular basis.  His drug intake began to reduce and he was eventually put on a methadone script. This in itself was a huge step as Mr (A) would not previously engage with outside agencies because he was always busy begging to fund his habit, which in his eyes was the most important thing.

    Mr (A) continued to make progress and started to go to college which he organised mostly on his own... ]]>Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:34:05 GMTNight Assessment Centre/St Paul’s Hostel Joint Case Study

    Client F

    Client F had been working the land as a volunteer in Ireland, but had to return to England as he was unable to claim any benefits.

    Client F spent Christmas with his sister and a short time with a friend in Liverpool before travelling to Birmingham where he attempted to find hostel accommodation; no help was available till the following day. Client F admits to being very scared and at this point a call was made to St Paul’s who referred the call to Link-Up who in turn referred to the NAC. Client F then used the last of his money to catch the bus to Worcester.

    Client F presented at the NAC on Wed 4^th Jan. During key-work it was identified that client F has a passion for Nature and working on the land, a call was made to the Support and Development co-ordinator at St Paul’s and ... ]]>Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:14:29 GMTQ,How do I get a flat?- Answer.....We inform the client that they will need to register with CLB or there is an option of privately renting. If the client wishes to take the route of privately renting they would be signposted to WHABAC who may offer them a bond service and are aware of local private landlords. They are given information on opening times.

    Q,What move on houses to we have? Answer..... We have 3 properties. One, 2 bedroom house in Little Chestnut Street, One 4 bedroom property in in Wyld’s lane and a 5 bedroom property in Compton Road.

    Q,What is Housing Options clinic/meetings ? Answer....... Housing options meetings are designed to inform the client of housing opportunities open to them. This may involve independent living but we also discuss other hostel                 
    environments more suitable to the client if they wish to move on. If the client wishes to re... ]]>Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:06:52 GMT'In memory' donations
    'In memory' donations are a positive way to celebrate a life while helping St Paul’s Hostel to make a difference to the lives of the homeless in Worcestershire.
    A donation made in memory of a loved one would  allow St Paul’s Hostel to offer support to people who are homeless and who need help with housing needs, and to give them the wherewithal to rebuild their lives by helping with communication skills, budgeting, health and food handling matters and assists them to turn their backs against substance dependencies.
    Making a donation in memory of a loved one
    If you would like to give in memory of a friend or relative:
    · You can make the arrangements through a funeral director.
    · If you prefer to make an in memory donation online please use the online form.
    · Alternatively, please send any donations, along with the name of the person in whose memory the donations are collecte... ]]>Fri, 18 May 2012 16:29:43 GMTTips for wording legacies

    The following sample wording can be used if you would like to leave a legacy to St Paul’s Hostel.

    The suggested wording to leave a share of your estate (residuary legacy) is:

    'Subject to the payment of my debts, funeral and testamentary expenses, I give (the whole/ (insert percentage value) of my estate not otherwise disposed of by this my Will to St Paul’s Hostel of Hillborough, Tallow Hill, Worcester WR5 1DB , registered charity number in England and Wales 1043921, for the general purposes of St Paul’s Hostel, and I declare that the receipt of their Treasurer or other proper officer shall be a full and sufficient discharge.'

    The suggested wording to leave a specific sum (pecuniary legacy) is:

    'I give free of tax to St Paul’s Hostel of Hillborough, Tallow Hill, Worcester WR5 1DB , registered charity number in England and Wales 1043921, the sum... ]]>Fri, 18 May 2012 11:04:21 GMTGIFT AID DECLARATION
    To St Paul’s Hostel
    Tallow Hill
    Worcester   

    
     Please treat as a Gift Aid donation to St Paul’s Hostel (Worcester)
     The enclosed gift of £                   as a Gift Aid donation; OR
     All gifts of money that I make today and in the future as Gift Aid donations; OR

     All gifts of money that I have made in the past 6 years and all future gifts of money that I make from the date of this declaration as Gift Aid donations

      Please tick the appropriate box

    
    I currently pay an amount of income tax or capital gains tax equal to the amount of tax reclaimed on my donations. I undertake to notify St Paul’s Hostel if I no longer pay tax income tax or capital gains tax equal to the amount of tax reclaimed on my donations.

    Signed…………&h... ]]>Wed, 02 May 2012 06:53:38 GMTContents
    · Why do I need a Will?
    · How do I make a Will?
    · What can I say in a Will?
    · How much does it cost to make a Will?
    · What are the different types of legacy?
    · Will I have to pay inheritence tax?
    · Why should I keep my Will up to date?
    · How do I amend my Will?
    Why do I need a Will?
    By making a Will, you can ensure that your possessions are passed on to the people and charities that you have chosen. If you do not have a Will, the state will decide how your property should be distributed.
    Back to top
    How do I make a Will?
    We suggest that you choose a solicitor to write your Will. If you don't know any solicitors, we recommend you call the Law society on 0870 606 2555 or visit www.solicitors-online.com
    You should be cle... ]]>Wed, 09 May 2012 09:18:20 GMTPSSST – Please Stay Safe and Sober Together

    St Pauls Hostel were invited by Safer Worcestershire to work alongside them in an education project called PSSST – Please  Stay Safe and Sober Together. Other partner agencies include DAAT, Healthy Schools, Health Improvement coordinator, Sporting Chance Project and ASB Detached Team.
    The aim of the project was to raise awareness amongst young people in regard to alcohol consumption, the consequences and impact that their drinking may have, connections to Anti-Social behaviour and other risky behaviour while under the influence and to highlight the health aspects of Alcohol consumption.
    One hour sessions were built as part of school lessons to year 7, 8 and 9 in all schools in Worcester. The sessions included a DVD that has been made involving St Pauls residents who volunteered their experiences of alcohol consumption and the effect that this has had on their lives. The residents were able to take part in... ]]>Sat, 19 May 2012 08:41:30 GMTBorderline DVD Article

    The YMCA in Worcester received a grant to network with other agencies and a professional production company, DRP Group, to produce a DVD called Borderline. St Paul’s Hostel, Maggs and Asha centre were invited to take part in this project in October 2009.
    
    The aim of this project is to raise awareness about homelessness within the city and to inform young people of Worcester about their options should they be faced with the prospect of becoming homeless. The  DVD will then be taken out to a variety of settings where young people are including schools, colleges and youth clubs and should form part of the education pack for schools that is to be updated.
    A further aim was to give resident s the opportunity to work with a professional production company to write the storylines, convert these stories into scripts and produce the DVD. St Paul’s residents were involved right from the start with 10 residents  and 2 members ... ]]>Thu, 17 May 2012 18:21:25 GMTPaul Clarke
    Evening Meals Team Leader: St Peters Baptist Church
    ]]>Sat, 19 May 2012 13:02:35 GMTPractical life skills – those which relate to managing the day-to-day business of independent living such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting and engaging with services effectively.
    Softer life skills – these allow people to form relationships and develop social networks and form the basis for making practical life skills relevant. Soft life skills include managing emotions both positive and negative and also the capacity to negotiate.
    St Paul’s Hostel are able to offer the following classes to their residents; drama workshop, art classes, swimming, baking, guitar and jewellery making classes.
    Residents compete with another local hostel playing in football, rounders and pool tournaments. Two residents were invited to try out for the Homeless World Cup Games. These events help to build self esteem and a sense of belongi... ]]>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:17:16 GMTWorcestershire Link UP as well as being a single point of contact will carry out a comprehensive and focussed assessment of need; it will provide coordination of referrals to relevant agencies.
    We hope to minimise the distress for clients by saving time, directing them to the relevant agencies and avoiding duplication.
    
    LinkUpLeaflet2012.pdf ]]>Thu, 10 May 2012 02:42:52 GMTHow do I become a volunteer with the hostel?
    
    Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at the hostel: volco@stpaulshostel.co.uk or ring 01905 723732 to arrange meeting up, and a look around.
    ]]>Sat, 19 May 2012 20:47:42 GMTThe kitchen at St Pauls was tired and old and the food was from the hospital. The residents were always complaining about the size of the portions and the taste of the food. Something had to be done!!!!

    In the summer of 2009 the kitchen was refurbished from old and tired to brand new and state of the art. They decided to employ a chef and I was brought on board at the same time as the refurbishment. My job was to revamp the food, teach the residents how to cook and give them vital life skills so they could cope outside of the hostel environment.

    First thing was a change in the food. The hospital food went and in came fresh food with plenty of variety. The menu changed to a three week rolling menu and the residents have an input into all the menus that are written.

    The next thing to do was encourage the residents into the kitchen and get them cooking. This was easy as they freely came through the door. We soon built up a great team that was always evolving but... ]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:36:06 GMTBIG SLEEP OUT

     History of the Big Sleep Out Event – Since 2006, St Paul’s Hostel have organised a Big Sleep Out Event which has been held on College Green, Cathedral to help raise valuable funds for the hostel residents and also to help raise as much awareness as possible regarding homelessness in Worcester.

    2011 was a bumper year for the big sleep out.  We had 30 sleepers and a total of £3269.00 was raised.  On the night there was a band and we also held a quiz which was extremely popular.  Some of our staff and volunteers also undertook a street collection with the help of the Sleep Out Dog J

    This year 2012 the Big Sleep Out will be held on the 21^st and 22<sup>n... ]]>Sat, 19 May 2012 17:50:11 GMTWorcestershire Ambassadors
    
    The Worcestershire Ambassadors are a groupof individuals who care passionately about the future health and prosperity of the county. The Membership is made up of individuals from different walks Of life including Commerce and the public sector.
    
    The Group are supported by Worcestershire County Council in achieving its aims and objectives.
    
    The Ambassadors share a common enthusiasm to create a county to be proud of.
    In addition to influencing and working with the Council, the Ambassadors champion many social Events and have a history of supporting many local charities.
    
    In 2011 we championed the campaign for the much needed Worcestershire Breast Unit Campaign raising 50k towards this excellent facility.
    
    Members get together frequently to understand the commercial opportunities within the County and through networking learn about each other’s businesses and discuss matters that effect the county... ]]>Thu, 17 May 2012 10:27:19 GMTA total of £3269 was raised! A tremendous effort, thank you to everyone who took part.
    The money will be used directly to benefit the residents, for example, trips, training, even shoes for interviews.
    Watch this space for 2012.
    
    
    
    ]]>Fri, 04 May 2012 13:31:58 GMTThe Counsellors back ground includes working with homeless  people in Wolverhampton for 8 years ,over 7 years working in the substance misuse field and  5 years training to become a qualified Counsellor/CBT Therapist.  He is an accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and is committed to the work we do with all that have contact with our service.</sup>

    The Counsellor as an eclectic approach to his work and includes Person Centred Therapy, Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).   The aims of the therapy are to solve problems concerning dysfunctional emotions, behaviours and cognitions through a goal-oriented, systematic procedure in the present. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence(NICE) recommends(CBT) as the treatment of choice for a number of Numeracy & Literacy Lessons – St Paul’s Hostel

     In the UK today, one in six adults do not have the literacy skills expected of an 11 year old and one in two adults do not have these levels of functional numeracy. –Learn Direct Website.

    2004 DfES (Department for Education and Skills) figures showed the following statistics:

    • It is estimated that adults with poor LLN (Language Literacy & Numeracy) skills could earn over £50 000 less over their lifetime and are more likely to have health problems.
    • Poor LLN skills cost the country’s economy £10 billion every year.
    • 5.2 million Adults (16%) in England have literacy skills below Level 1 (GCSE D-G).
    • 15 million adults in England have numeracy skills below Level 1.

    Can you imagine how difficult it would be to maintain y... ]]>Mon, 14 May 2012 14:25:53 GMTIf you have anything to donate, please ring this number on 07527323715.
    We need:
    -White Goods
    - Single beds
    -Sofas and Chairs
    - Wardrobes etc ]]>Thu, 10 May 2012 21:43:10 GMTThe Homeless World Cup is a UK based social enterprise which exists to end homelessness. Since 2003 the annual Homeless World Cup football tournament has taken place across four continents. The Paris 2011 Homeless World Cup took place at the Champ de Mers, Paris fron 21st - 28th August. The winners were Scotland. On eof our residents was chosen to play for England.
    
    Gavin (pictured) played in goal.
    "not only is it a privilige to represent my country in a sport I enjoy so much, it makes me proud to part of helping".
    
    ]]>Thu, 03 May 2012 19:16:18 GMTKitchen Assistant

    I am a 20 year old male who became homeless when I was 18 I left home when my parents split up and moved in with a friend. He then lost his tenancy and we were made homeless we were stopping at a friend’s house in Worcester and we got told we had to move out so my friend suggested we try and get into St Pauls Hostel and after going down there a couple of times I got in July 09. I was then given a key worker who told me about the hostel and what goes on and there was a kitchen referral scheme going on, which was ideal for me because I had always enjoyed cooking and had done a course at college. I had a chat with the chef who told me about the aims off the scheme and I filled in a referral September 09.

     I started in the kitchen and I really enjoyed it and I got on really well with the chef and after I while he started knocking my door to get me up to start in the kitchen. There were also other people who got into the kitchen who I got alon... ]]>Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:47:15 GMTWhat is the role of volunteers?
    St. Paul’s Hostel was started by volunteers in March 1977 in response to the high numbers of people (specifically men) sleeping rough.
    Volunteers still play a vital role in providing these services, and are highly valued by the charity. We really appreciate it when people are willing to give their time!

    Volunteers are involved in:
    Helping serve and clear up the evening meal within the hostel
    Befriending clients to assist them to build new social networks especially when they are ready to move out of the hostel.
    Organising and helping with social events/life skills activities for and with the residents
    Fundraising—a specific group which meets to plan and organise events.  
    Shift Support
    What sort of people volunteer for St. Paul’s Hostel?
    Lots of different people volunteer at St Paul's Hostel! And we have a range of volunteering opportunities to suit a wide variety of sk... ]]>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:20:56 GMTPress Release Life Skills Project
    A grant of £192,698 from BIG Lottery fund has been awarded to St Paul's Hostel (Worcester) to continue its Life Skills Project which is a programme of support for homeless people.
    St Paul’s Hostel is a registered charity and has been working with the Homeless since 1977. St Pauls Hostel is committed to supporting the individual needs of people faced with homelessness and help to develop their skills to live independent lives.

    The aim of the life skills project is to develop support work for a highly dependent group of single homeless people, promoting life skills which build client’s social networks thus helping to maintain stability, raising people's aspirations and transforming their health and wellbeing. Building self-esteem and confidence reduces social isolation and improves access to education, training and employment opportunities.

    There are opportunities to learn skills such as bricklaying, carpen... ]]>Thu, 10 May 2012 10:03:49 GMT
    Thanks for taking the time to visit my fundraising page.
    
    As some of you may know, I was diagnosed with "High Cholesterol" in May 2010, and as a consequence, I was provided with free weekly Weight Watchers session's by my GP, (Weight Watchers on prescription!!). By October 2010, I had reduced my Cholesterol back down to normal levels and also reduced my weight by 50 (Fifty) lbs.
    
    I have now maintained my "Target Weight/Gold Member" for over a year through diet, exercise (and a reduction in alcohol !!) and thought that a challenge requiring regular exercise would give me an incentive/goal to carry on for a bit longer.
    
    The challenge that I have signed up for is a "London to Paris" cycle ride (22-25 June 2012). 320km (200 miles) over 3 days, which I am financing myself (£595.00), and with your help, I would like to raise £750.00 for my chosen local charity, St Paul's Hostel in Worcester.
    
    Feel free to make... ]]>Thu, 26 Apr 2012 18:55:08 GMTThe Night Assessment Centre (also known as the NAC and Night Shelter) is one of St Paul’s most vital winter services.  It was held this year between November 2011 and March 2012 at Worcester’s YMCA . Open 9.30pm to 7.00am it provides immediate shelter and support for the homeless during the coldest months of the year, with much of the bedding, food and refreshments donated by local well wishers.  In addition to the instant aid given, homeless people are also offered longer term support to help them return to full health and independence.

     Fifty-four year old Chris was one such NAC client this year in need of help.  He’d held down a full-time job, lived in rented ac... ]]>Sat, 19 May 2012 09:17:38 GMT
    Worcestershire Night Assessment Centre
    
    This is a cold weather provision that operates for 16 weeks during the coldest part of the year from March To November.  The Night Assessment Centre (NAC) is managed by St Pauls but for the first time this year hosted by Worcester YMCA. This year proved to be the most successful yet for accommodating clients who would otherwise sleep on the street. 
    
    
    The NAC was funded  by Supporting People, Drug and Alcohol Action Team and the  six districts councils, (Worcester City, Malvern Hills, Bromsgrove and Redditch, Wychavon and Wyre Forrest).

    The aim of the NAC was not just offering a safe alternative to rough sleeping but offered clients the opportunity to engage with new and existing services, providing support and assistance in moving away from, or even getting into street homelessness. The basic objectives of the service, are as follows:

    • To create a place of safety for pe... ]]>Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:50:23 GMTBromyard Road is a large double fronted Victorian house providing accommodation for up to seven clients in five single and one double bedroom. There are both ground floor and first floor bathroom facilities, a laundry room, large sitting / TV room and a large kitchen/dining room which also doubles as a computer room. Set back from the road with a small front garden it also has ample parking and a large rear garden with a bar-b-queue area which is looked after by current and former clients.
      
      Everyone living at the house has the common goal of wanting to live an independent substance free life. To this end the ethos in the house is very much a community one where a lot of the support is provided by the other clients. Everyone is expected and supported to take an active part in all aspects of the house both informally, e.g. clients are encouraged to form mutually supportiv... ]]>Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:28:58 GMTThe Resettlement Team
      
      Who Are We?
      St Paul’s Hostel Resettlement Team exists to support and advise clients on housing related issues.
      Over many years, we have developed a dynamic and responsive support service which links with the essential learning necessary for sustained success.
      We are a team of three full time workers and one part time worker providing varying levels of support to those who need it.
      
      What Do I Need To Do?
      · You must want to make a change.
      ·&n... ]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:18:32 GMT
      St Paul's Hostel is a purpose built hostel offering accomodation and support services to a total of 48 clients (46 in the hostel and 2 move-on flats). As well as food and a room every client who accesses St Paul's is also allocated a key worker whose job it is to help clients identify their own goals and aspirations, and then offer the necessary support and assistance to make them achievable. In addition the hostel also offers a varied Life Skills programme in order to help people develop the confidence, self-esteem and skills necessary for succesful independent living. This covers:
      
      1. Practical Life Skills - those which relate to the day to day businessof... ]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:16:17 GMT
      St Paul's management asks that all potential applicants read the job description and person specification thoroughly before applying. If, after reading these documents you decide you want to apply please ensure that your application form is completed as requested. Failure to do so will reduce your chances of being called for interview.
      
      St Paul's aims to acknowledge every completed application form by the next working day (Mon - Fri, 9 - 5). If you do not receive an acknowledgement please email admin@stpaulshostel.co.uk
       
      St Paul's will only write to those people who have been called for interview. If you have not heard from us by the end of the third working day after the closing date please asume that on this occassion you have been unsuccessful.
      
      Application forms can be downloaded here an... ]]>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:07:18 GMTSt Paul's manages a number of services that can help if you are sleeping rough.
      
      Worcestershire Link Up. This is a central referral and assessment service that exists to coordinate referrals into any single homeless service across the county. It operates during normal office hours Monday - Friday. Referrals can be made directly into some services outside of these hours.
      
      Worcestershire Homeless Intervention Team is a street outreach team covering the whole of the county who work with anyone sleeping rough or in danger of having to sleep rough. They will offer advice, support and assistance to help you secure more suitable accommodation.
      Fri, 04 May 2012 05:11:04 GMTSt Paul's Hostel is a direct access hostel serving the county of Worcestershire; this means that anyone, aged 16 or above who is homeless in the county and has a local connection to one of the six districts (Worcester City, Wychavon, Wyre Forest, Malvern Hills, Bromsgrove and Redditch) is eligible for housing within the hostel. ]]>Thu, 03 May 2012 19:16:25 GMT 
      Do you know someone who is sleeping rough or may end up sleeping rough?
      
      Do you work with prople who may be sleeping rough?
      
      If the answer to any of these questions is 'yes' then the
      
      Worcestershire
      
      Homeless
      
      Intervention
      
      Team
      
      may be able to help you.
      
      
      
      
      
      <... ]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:37:36 GMTSat, 19 May 2012 20:48:06 GMTMon, 19 Sep 2011 16:18:19 GMTIf you are worried that you may about to become homeless there are a number of organisations that may be able to help you.
      
      In the first instance you should approach the housing department of your local authority. Their contact details are as follows:
      
      Worcester City 01905 722233 www.cityofworcester.go.uk
      Wychavon 01386 565020 www.wychavon.gov.uk
      Wyre Forest 01562 732928  www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk
      Malvern Hills 01684 579579  www.festivalhousin.org.
      Bromsgrove 01527... ]]>Wed, 16 May 2012 21:47:59 GMTWorcestershire LinkUP
      
      Worcestershire LinkUP is a single homeless access service covering the whole of the county. It acts as a single point of contact for clients and aims to facilitate quick and effective access into supported accommodation and housing support services. Clients must be homeless or potentially homeless and in addition they may have a history of offending behaviour, problematic drug or alcohol use or be a young person i.e. 16 - 25. The LinkUP staff will complete a comprehensive assessment of a client's needs and coordinate referrals to agencies relevant to the client. Client details are also logged onto a secure internet hosted database ensuring timely and efficient data sharing. By taking this central role and coordinating referrals Link UP aims to reduce duplication, divert people away from the streets, minimise distress and get vulnerable people help when they need it.
      
      Link... ]]>Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:58:50 GMTWed, 25 Apr 2012 13:20:17 GMTHi, I’m Simon and I am 30 years old. I am a volunteer at St Pauls Hostel. Over the past six months I have been gaining experience in the form of shadowing the support workers at the hostel.

      My next move will be to start the Volunteer Shift Support Worker role, where I become a fourth member of staff in the office, hands on learning. I’ll soon be able to cover when a support worker needs to go out with a client. Great training for working in this field!

      I am also a really keen cyclist and have decided to help St Pauls by organising team to join a sponsored cycle ride from London to Brighton next year. Anyone is welcome to join us!!
      
      

      ]]>Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:04:45 GMTThere are many ways to donate to St Paul's 
      
      
      • Donate your time by becoming a volunteer 
      • Post a cheque to "St Pauls Hostel"
      • Become a regular donor: select 'monthly' on the donate tool on this page
      • Become a champion by setting up your own fundraising page
      • Read our tips for wording a legacy donation
      • Support us with a one-off donation by clicking Donate Now on this page
      ]]>Thu, 17 May 2012 11:34:36 GMT
      Duo nostrum deserunt id, id cibo argumentum eos. Ex solet placerat est, debet insolens te sit. Viderer electram vis cu, ad audire utroque expetendis eum, duis euripidis duo eu. Volutpat scriptorem te ius, mutat labitur indoctum cum ne, quo in putant labores iracundia. An epicurei rationibus usu, an quaeque dolorum duo. ]]>Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:52:28 GMT