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Light Project Peterborough is the Bishop’s Charity for 2026. This amazing charity works to enable and equip the church and community to heal the broken-hearted, set free the oppressed, and bring good news to the poor. They have been active in Peterborough since 2009 and continue to support wherever they can.
Over the years they have led City Chaplaincy, Winter Night Shelters, Rest Centres during the Covid 19 ‘Everyone In’ initiative, Multi-Agency Community Support Teams and day time services through the Garden House, based in the Cathedral grounds.
As part of our focus on their work we hear Jamie's story...
Jamie has lived in Peterborough all his life and previously worked at Anglia Water. He has been homeless on and off for a number of years by sofa surfing at friend’s houses but ultimately spending most of his time on the streets. “I don’t like tents; I’d rather wear several layers of clothing and walk the streets at night.”
Jamie first came to the Garden House six years ago. He explains “My dad brought me here one day as he was concerned about me. I was mentally unstable at the time and there weren’t many other options. It did help me, though I was dismissive about the idea to begin with. I’ve got to meet and know lot of people by coming here. It’s very multi-cultural and you can learn a lot from others if you want to. Being homeless is okay if you’re well fed and can look after yourself, but when you start to deteriorate and starve, it can be very dangerous especially during the winter. Coming to the Garden House means I can get hot food and drink as well as respite from the bad weather.”
Throughout his time at the Garden House, Jamie has had appointments with a GP, a dentist and support with substance misuse. “I’ve had six rotten teeth removed with a couple more still to go. The services I can access have been really good.”
“I have had a lot of bad times but since having a health issue when I was 30, it’s changed my outlook on life and given me the motivation to do things differently. I’m still not fully better but I’m trying to eat healthier, get active, and cut down on my drug use.”
Jamie adds “I’ve got a puppy now called Briggi and she has helped a lot. Having her means I don’t go out with friends as much anymore and I have more of a routine which is ultimately healthier for me. Having a dog does mean I worry more about the weather and protecting her from getting too cold or wet, but it’s given me a focus which I needed. I’ve built a shed for us to live in, and we often go foraging for apples, pears, peaches, plums etc.”
“Teresa [Project Worker] is a lovely lady. We have had our ups and downs, but she has helped me so much. To begin with I struggled to allow people to help me, but I really do appreciate all the support I’ve been given. I like my life now, it’s simple and chill.”
In the past few weeks, Jamie has been volunteering his time. “To give something back, I’ve started helping out with the showers as the Project Workers don’t have the time to. It feels good to help others and I know how important it is to access a hot shower.”
Jamie has also signed up to take part in the Great Eastern Run Half Marathon.
Further information on Light Project Peterborough, including how to make a donation or get involved in fundraising, can be found here.