News

Newly appointed Fundraising Co-ordinator Miranda writes about her first impressions of St Martins, "In the last two weeks, I’ve met a diverse and dynamic group of people who have made me feel very welcome, like becoming part of a new family!"

St Martins enjoyed a field day at the Norfolk Christian Football League’s 2019 end-of-season mini-tournament in April when grassroots team the Eaton Eagles stepped up to receive the league's fellowship trophy – their strip proudly bearing the charity's logo.

When you see a person who is homeless, particularly those who are more visible on the streets, it’s easy to make assumptions about how they got that way, perhaps how they made certain life choices.

Members of Thorpe Hamlet Labour Party decided to donate some of the proceeds of their annual jumble sale to St Martins after being moved by seeing the issue of homelessness every day on the streets of our city.

When he first came in, staff used to dread knocking on his door when making a welfare call, in case he'd overdosed during the night. St Martins staff reflect on how they supported John when he first came to the hostel.

Highwater House, a residential service run by St Martins, has been awarded Outstanding rating by CQC inspectors. The service provides accommodation and personal care for 22 people who have been homeless or are at risk of homelessness.  The service was awarded the highest possible rating overall and was deemed to be outstanding for being well-led and caring.

Over the last few weeks, we've been pleased to host Johanne, a third year student from Norway. While she was here, Johanne worked in the community services team at St Martins and joined some teaching opportunities at the University of East Anglia. 

We spoke at the regional meeting of ‘Homes for Cathy’ in Norwich last month, a group of housing associations who work on strategies to end homelessness.

Unfurling the real stories behind those who have ended up homeless helps people to relate to the experiences they have been through, says Joe, 28, whose journey features in verbatim play Street Life.

The weekly singing group at our learning and development centre Under 1 Roof is gaining in popularity and each week everybody leaves the room with a smile on their face. Those participating have either been homeless, or at risk of homelessness and team members from St Martins join in too.