Have we got a safe place to put down roots and grow? This might be a family home, shared accommodation with others, or perhaps a place of our own?
The story can be very different for those leaving prison. Typically, young prison leavers are placed in cheap, low quality accommodation which can encourage a return to old acquaintances and destructive patterns of behaviour. The Message Trust with staff, partners and volunteers are on a mission to help to change this situation… They are doing this in a number of ways, including providing a resettlement house called The Oaks. At the heart of The Oaks is a vision of a Christian community that both supports our team members as they rebuild their lives, and blesses the local area.
The Oaks is a 9 bedroom resettlement house for particularly vulnerable individuals who need extra support before they are ready to graduate into full-time employment. The Oaks offers a residential support programme lasting a minimum of 12 months. After an induction, courses will guide new team members into greater emotional stability and deeper faith in Christ. Life skills and coaching help them become better stewards of their time, finances and relationships. Days are carefully structured to allow for a balance of vocational work placements, devotions, training and free time.
Feel free to share news about this amazing venture and join us as we pray for those leaving prison that they may find a safe place to put down roots… May each person at The Oaks and all of those leaving prison be strengthened in confidence and faith, as they find a safe place; to know they have have hope and the chance to grow… Amen