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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 Mick's story...
Mick was sleeping rough for about three months after having issues with alcohol and falling out with his wife. He had also lost his job in advertising due to the problems he was having. “When I was sleeping on the streets, I had no self-dignity or self-pride.” Mick was sleeping outside a supermarket most nights and he was struggling that badly that he admits “I did try to take my own life at one point. But another homeless person told someone, and they came to take blades and medicines away from me. I’ve also been mugged whilst on the streets. To “cope” I was drinking alcohol from the moment I woke up to the moment I passed out.”
Mick got to breaking point and decided he wanted help to get his life back on track. By going to CGL Aspire, it led to him getting onto a detox programme for two weeks. Thankfully, Mick has now got back into a better place, rebuilt the relationship with his wife, and has been off alcohol for nearly two years. “I knew I couldn’t drink again after I had finished the detox. I had hit rock bottom, and I couldn’t go back there again. I no longer have issues with alcohol, and my life is better.”
To try and occupy himself, Mick was looking for something to keep him busy. “Someone I know from WorkWell mentioned the Garden House and encouraged me to talk to Graham about an exciting opportunity. I took it with both hands.
The Peer Advocates (PA) training was really good. I couldn’t have asked for a better facilitator in Graham. The sessions were fun and though-provoking. I learnt a lot!
A voluntary role suits me for the time being, but my long-term aim is to get back into full time employment. The PA programme will help me to rebuild my confidence, so I’ll be ready for the workplace.”
Further information on Light Project Peterborough, including how to make a donation or get involved in fundraising, can be found here.