To St Wilfrids Centre for the Homeless and Vulnerable
Last week, I took four of our Year 8 Faith in Action team students to St Wilfrid’s Centre on Queen Street , a special place dedicated to supporting adults who are isolated, vulnerable, socially excluded, or homeless. The Centre provides understanding, practical help, and a true sense of belonging, offering individuals opportunities to improve their quality of life and regain self-esteem.
Our students joined other Year 8 pupils from Hallam Catholic schools for this inspiring visit. We were warmly welcomed by Dominic, the Workshop Manager and Health & Safety Coordinator at St Wilfrid’s. He introduced us to the workshop facilities, which run Monday to Thursday both morning and afternoon, offering training and mentoring in woodwork, print-work, and laser-work. The workshop produces items for order and for sale, helping to raise vital funds for the Centre.
Dominic explained how each session is led by skilled staff and volunteers and tailored to meet the needs and abilities of every client. Our students were impressed to see the high standard of craftsmanship in the wooden medical boxes recently made by some of the clients, beautifully constructed and professionally finished. These boxes are sold to NHS services and other organisations across the UK, demonstrating the pride and purpose this work brings to those involved.
Next, Louise, the Welfare Manager and Deputy Director, spoke to our group about the many other services offered at St Wilfrid’s, including rough sleeper support, a subsidised café, and a wide range of life skills programmes. Above all, she emphasised that the Centre is a place of warmth, love, compassion, and kindness, values that truly shine through in every aspect of their work.
After our visit, we travelled to Mother of God Church on Abbeydale Road to celebrate Mass with Monsignor Kilgannon. Following Mass, our group shared lunch in the church hall with some of the parishioners who stayed for soup and sandwiches. Our young people eagerly helped to serve meals and drinks, taking time to chat and connect with everyone there. The afternoon ended with a few lively games of bingo before it was time to return to school.
This Faith in Action trip was a wonderful experience for our Year 8 students. It was a day of service, reflection, and community. It was a privilege to witness the incredible work being done at St Wilfrid’s Centre and to be part of a day filled with faith, compassion, and joy.
Love and God bless,
Suzanne