James Duddridge, Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East, recently visited a number of facilities run by HARP (Homeless Action Resource Project). James started his visit at the day centre in Valkyrie Road. The day service offers a range of advisory and support services including emergency accommodation, housing and benefits advice, chiropodist and drug referral schemes for the homeless or people in temporary or emergency accommodation. HARP day service also provides hot food and facilities to wash clothes. The food is donated from local businesses and schools.
James then visited the charity shop, run by service users and volunteers. The charity shop is designed to support, encourage and integrate service users back into society. Working at the charity shop provides structure and responsibility.
Finally James visited a hostel at Ceylon Road. The hostel provides rehabilitation accommodation for clients who are undergoing treatment for drug addiction. The services offered at the hostel are similar to those provided at the day service and are offered to all clients.
James said
“The staff and volunteers work tirelessly to offer support, guidance and encouragement to some of the town’s most vulnerable people. I was delighted to meet with a number of volunteers from the day service, charity shop and hostel, many of the volunteers have accessed the services provided by HARP. One young man told me that had it not have been for the support of staff and the services offered, he firmly believes he would not be alive today.
Being a Parliamentarian, my job has many different aspects to it and no matter how many times I meet people who volunteer to organisations like HARP, I am always humbled. I offer my personal thanks, as I am sure without your support, these services would not be available”
ENDS