Many, including guests, volunteers and partner agencies have commented on the unique atmosphere at Crossways. We strive to ensure that every guest can feel safe, heard and able to access the support they need.
A key factor has been the continuity we’ve been able to maintain within our team, with many returning to the project year after year, including these two lovely people!
Emma first joined us as part of our response to the COVID pandemic, bringing her extensive knowledge of homelessness within the city to Masters House. She has been onboard at Crossways since the project began in November 2021, focused on helping guests secure suitable next stage accommodation. Emma is also a trusted friend to our female guests.
For Emma, when somebody arrives the priority is to make sure they’ve had a chance to eat, have a hot drink and settle into their room. Questions can come later. It can take time for trust to develop, and it is often whilst sitting in the lounge, having a coffee and watching TV that people begin to open up and tell their stories.
Like Emma, Paddy has been with us since the pandemic, as a part of the team from Evolve that supports us on a 24/7 basis at Crossways.
Over the last two winters, Paddy and his team have become more than just the faces that greet people at the gate and ensure that the building is a safe place for all. Their calm, compassionate approach and willingness to build relationships with our guests has been a real asset.
You’ll often find Paddy having a chat or a laugh with our guests and his larger-than-life personality helps put so many people at ease. We'll be publishing more 'meet the team' articles in the coming months.
If you would like to find out how your organisation can support our work, please email coordinator@ittakesacity.org.uk.
