Relationships are at the heart of what we do. Although a very basic, unconditional practical provision will always be very important to us, such provision is primarily a tool for the building up of a positive relationship with those who come through our doors. We believe that such relationships between volunteers and guys give the best opportunities for tranformation and healing.

Many of those we see have been through all the statutory systems and services and are wary of institutions and organisations. We try to provide an environment that breaks down the unhelpful us/them barriers to encourage and support the guys we see.

Practical Provision

Out of the Alpha Centre we run our drop-in. We try to be open every day over lunch and every night. We provide hot food, a shower, clothing if needed and a place to sit and chat round the dinner table. For those otherwise sleeping rough we provide a sofa to sleep on overnight.

The reasons that people find themselves homeless are extremely varied. Substance abuse, mental health, addictions, relationship breakdowns and family catastrophes can all play a part. We try to help people in whatever way they need help. Finding accommodation, getting help with substance abuse or health issues, getting support in accommodation or simply sitting down and having a chat are all things that we offer.

The majority of our volunteers spend their time at the drop-in. We have visits from Community Nurses and strong links with other agencies such as the Stauros Foundation (Chrisitian group helping addicts). The drop-in is an unconditional and relaxed as we can make it. Guys can come in off the street and get looked after if they are in a state. Alcohol and medication is handed in to be returned when people leave. As long as people are peaceful we are happy to have them through the door.

Work in the community

One day a week (or more if we have a lot on or are feeling particularly keen!) the drop-in closes and the guys are invited to join us in a day of work. It might be a day on our allotment out at the Braaid, where we grow vegetables that we can pass on to our generous cooks who provide food for the drop-in. It might be clearing a field of gorse or helping someone with their garden.

All the work is voluntary and gives us a wonderful opportunity to get out of Douglas, get involved in something positive and hopefully help someone out. We can't guarantee lots of skills but we've got plenty of enthusiasm! We are always interested in hearing from people who might be able to offer us some work.

Working together on even the smallest project is a great blessing. It gives us all a sense of achievement and provides many of the guys with a bridge into more voluntary work or the workplace.

Community Visits

Volunteers who have built up a good relationship with some of the guys we see often visit them in the community. This might be visiting them in prison or in hospital. This might be visiting them in their accommodation or offering support in appointments with other agencies.

As in all relationships, time is needed for them to flourish. Time spent together, meals shared and lots of tea drunk are the small things that make a great difference to us all.

Walks and Trips

We regularly organise walks that everyone is welcome to come on. We also take trips out around the island. Again, these are another opportunity for us to spend good time together, getting to know each other and enjoying simple things.

Hospitality