A safe haven for the homeless in Norwich
Members of Connect Norwich were invited to consider how to help people who are homeless, whether social action is mission in itself, and were informed about the vital work of the Arc in Pottergate.
Major Debbie Pearson has been a Salvation Army minister for seventeen years, and spoke at the Connect Norwich meeting in March about her role as Chaplain at the Arc on Pottergate in Norwich. She is inspired by the power of the church in action, which brings about transformation. Debbie said, "The Salvation Army are often referred to as Christianity with its sleeves rolled up, because practical ministry has always been at the centre of what we do. We put our beliefs into action...because for us, salvation was never understood as purely spiritual. For us spiritual salvation and social transformation is the full gospel."
The Arc is a drop-in on Pottergate in Norwich for anyone experiencing homelessness or vulnerably housed. Debbie explained this includes people sleeping rough, sleeping in cars, sofa surfing, and people who might have a tenancy but don't have the life skills to look after themselves. Most people attending are not ready for a tenancy and many can't be housed.
What happens at the Arc?
Visitors to the Arc can get free hot drinks throughout the day, purchase a fry up for £2*, use of phone, computer, shower and laundry facilities. Most important of all they receive a warm welcome and a safe place to be.
There is a community meal served once a week and regular food donations from a local bakery chain. A church volunteer provides sandwiches for people to take away. There is a women-only afternoon, as many women feel intimidated in a mixed environment. Activity afternoons are popular and visitors can play board games, take part in gardening, cooking and karaoke. A podiatrist visits regularly and the team signpost people to other agencies that can help.
The ARC started 27 years ago at the Citadel on St Giles. The service grew and moved to Pottergate and was later handed over to The Salvation Army Homeless Services HQ, which is run by the national team, however many people from the Norwich church volunteer and support the mission.
Complex trauma
People experiencing homelessness bring life stories shaped by complex trauma: mental health, addiction, domestic abuse, childhood instability. Debbie said, "When you come across difficult people, just bear in mind what they may already have gone through in life at a very young age. A good question to bear in mind, is what’s happened to you?, rather than what’s wrong with you?"
The small team at the Arc see people when they are at their lowest and most chaotic. Debbie said, "Everything we do is done in a trauma informed way and always rooted in compassion."
The Connect Norwich group were invited to consider some of the questions and challenges that exist around homelessness:
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What should you do when you see someone who is homeless?*
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What do people experiencing homelessness need?
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As the church, is social action mission in itself?
There was discussion around what people really need, including friendship, dignity and hope. Practical provision of food, clothing and blankets is important, but there is a point where this can become enabling and counter-productive.
There is a danger that if we don’t tell people about Jesus, we just become another social service. But there is also the danger of just preaching the gospel without addressing the lived reality of suffering and injustice. Debbie said, "We need to be careful when preaching the gospel that we are not taking advantage of the vulnerable. The Salvation Army holds this in tension all the time."
The team at the Arc are clear their their role is not to fix people, but to walk alongside them in a way that is intentional and relational, to be non-judgmental and a positive presence.
*How to help someone who is homeless
Suggestions included:
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Contact Streetlink (website or phone 0300 500 0914 ) to report a concern about someone sleeping rough. A local team will be alerted so they can respond.
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Engage in conversation
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Give advice – direct to those who can help (the council, the Arc, Pathways)
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Food and drink – ask them first, and remember there is a lot already available
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*Purchase a fry up voucher for £2 from the Arc in Pottergate to give to people
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Money – it's your choice, and their choice how they spend it; be led by God
Pictured above: Major Debbie Pearson
What is Connect Norwich?
Connect Norwich is a networking group open to churches and Christian organisations. It is not only for ministers or CEOs - but all are welcome as representatives from their churches or organisations. The group meets every two months at various locations to enjoy a meal, a talk and networking opportunities. It helps build valuable connections amongst the Christian community in Norwich. The next meeting is on May 13 from 12 noon - 2pm at Soul church. If you would like to attend please email connectnorwich@networknorwich.co.uk