 |
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 Jeff's story...
Jeff was sleeping on the streets for 18 months. He has a dog, Jaymo, which he’s had for several years. Jeff struggled with drugs and despite getting off them for a bit, when he returned to Stoke-On-Trent, he soon relapsed. He was offered accommodation, but he’d have to give up Jaymo and he couldn’t bare to do that. “Some people think you’re abusing the dog by keeping it on the streets with you, but they don’t understand.” So, he decided to leave Stoke-On-Trent and took a train to Peterborough as he found a boat online. “I found one, but it was a complete shell.”
Jeff came to the Garden House at the end of June before the Council’s Rough Sleeper Outreach team found him on his boat. The team soon found him place in a hostel that allowed dogs. Jeff and Jaymo visited the Garden House every day to receive support with food, drink, a shower as well as access to health professionals.
Jeff says: “Sam and Teresa [Project Workers] have been a massive help. Particularly Teresa who was the first person I had contact with at the Garden House and she’s always been concerned about me and has done what she can to help. She’s helped me with the Council Rough Sleeper Team and with my benefits.” Jeff adds “As long as you’re reasonable and don’t cause any hassle, the Project Workers will do everything they can for you.”
Jeff has now secured a place in supported accommodation with Jaymo and doesn’t come to the Garden House as much now. “I like coming to get a hot drink and seeing everyone but there’s people who need the help a lot more than me now.”
Further information on Light Project Peterborough, including how to make a donation or get involved in fundraising, can be found here.