New Rev for Routes to Roots

Aimed at those who are vulnerably housed, the outreach sessions are currently held at the United Reformed Church in Skinner Street. Andy also takes on the role of the charity’s Volunteer Co-ordinator following the departure of his predecessor, Helen Tucker.

Having recently relocated to Poole after training to be a vicar, Andy will work part-time for Routes to Roots running the daily drop-in centre that provides support and advice for Poole’s vulnerably housed and homeless. Taking a break from parish life as a vicar, Andy is also working with several local primary schools alongside the PACE Trust.

Andy says:

"I am very excited about joining the team at Routes to Roots and as a passionate Christian, I look forward to putting my values and principles into practice.

“It presents a great opportunity for me to play an important role in this wonderful charity which provides vital support to those who, for many complex reasons, find themselves sleeping rough or without permanent accommodation.”

Routes to Roots re-opened their daily drop-in sessions in July after Covid-19 lockdown restrictions eased, leading to many of Poole’s homeless being released from their temporary accommodation and back on the streets.

Due to social distancing rules, the sessions are currently limited to providing daily takeaway lunches, but the drop-in team hopes to extend this service soon, by offering more one-to-one support as the colder months draw closer.

Meanwhile, renovations at the charity’s new permanent base in Hill Street have begun. Once completed, the transformed former Baptist Church will offer Poole’s vulnerably housed a long-term sanctuary to help them ensure lasting positive change in their lives.