It feels like only yesterday I was writing the Christmas blog talking about it being our last Christmas at Bath St and here we are twelve months later sat in our new building at Stonehouse Creek writing a blog for this year. To say the last twelve months has been a whirlwind of activity, would be an understatement. Having the new building renovated and then moving the whole of Bath St to Stonehouse Creek, whilst at the same time continuing to run services, was no mean feat. However, in true Shekinah style, everyone including staff, volunteers and supporters rallied around and made the move happen. During this time there were so many acts of kindness from local businesses and individuals, that without this support the move would have been far more difficult than it already was.

So, as we approach our first Christmas in our new home, I started to reflect on the many years of Christmas that Shekinah has been operating and the hundreds of people who access our services over the Christmas period. We know that for many people we support, Christmas time can be an exceedingly challenging time of year and is often full of mixed emotions. With the shops full of glitz and glam and posters depicting families huddled around a Christmas tree, it is no wonder that for people who have no one, they often just want it all to be over.

I know that many years ago we use to “play down” Christmas for fear of upsetting people and apart from Christmas day would not even have decorations up. I guess what brought about the change was talking to people who were clear that whilst it was difficult, to be in a safe space that was decorated to reflect the time of year helped them feel normal and deserving. Anyone who has read my blogs will know that I have voiced for many years that the people we support deserve better in an environment that reflects a sense of normality as appose to the stereotypical environment that people experiencing homelessness have had to suffer over the years. So yes, we will be decorating our new home, and we will be celebrating Christmas in a safe space for people to enjoy the Christmas period without feeling that they do not deserve it.  

Finally on behalf of all the trustees, staff, volunteers and most importantly the people that use Shekinah’s services, thank you for your continued support. Can I also take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a Happy Christmas and healthy New Year.    

John Hamblin
Chief Executive