PARTNERSHIP PROJECT LAUNCHED TO HELP CHILDREN IN TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION
The partnership will provide a successful model of enhanced communication between Peterborough City Council housing needs, housing providers and schools across the city so that if housing and accommodation is temporary for families, children’s needs can be met in a greater measure and education outcomes improved.
Steven Pettican, CEO of Light Project Peterborough, said: “Last Winter we worked with Peterborough churches and the wider community to donate 600 Christmas gifts to 300 children who were living in temporary accommodation. This highlighted the real need not only for help and support, but for communication and awareness. The project has gained good momentum and we are committed to helping vulnerable children and their families.”
Light Project Peterborough’s vision is to enable and equip the church and community to heal the broken hearted, set free the oppressed and bring good news to the poor. The charity continues to grow significantly, and it has coordinated several successful projects to offer support for those in need in the city, including the Garden House – the central hub for people sleeping on the streets in Peterborough.
Rick Carroll, Principal at Thomas Deacon Academy, said: “Homelessness is proven to have negative impacts on the outcomes of young people so preventing it from happening has to be the focus of all involved. By working with partners to ensure that support and education are provided, the impact will be reduced. This is an excellent project that will dramatically improve the lives of young people across Peterborough.”
Cllr Lynne Ayres, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education, Skills and the University, added: “It is great to see the voluntary sector taking a lead in our Think Communities approach to make our city a better place for children. Light Project Peterborough do fantastic work for vulnerable people in the city and this collaboration will allow local organisations to work together to bring awareness, social change and help to those who need it.”
For more information on Light Project Peterborough and how to show your support, please visit: www.lightprojectpeterborough.org.uk