St Vincent de Paul (S.V.P)

The Peterborough S.V.P. group is part of the larger society of the St Vincent de Paul Society (England and Wales) which is part of an International Christian, voluntary network dedicated to tackling poverty in all its forms, by providing practical assistance to people in need. The society makes wide connections and is inclusive of people of all faiths and none.

We provide a service of support to anyone poor, in need, regardless of background, creed, gender or political opinion. The work we do is person-to-person and spending time with people is our greatest gift. Home visits are at the core of how we work. The person themselves, a relative or a friend can ask for a visit and we can then see what help we may be able to offer. Two volunteers visit together the person or family seeking support, whether they are in their own home, in hospital, prison, care home, homeless or in temporary accommodation e.g. refugees.

We try to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable and needy as best we can. This may take the form of liaising with local communities and supermarkets to help us provide food, clothing or furniture, whether locally or in areas of great need nearby. Sometimes a person is lonely and needs the comfort of a friendly face and a

chat and to feel cared about. Sometimes advice is obtained from other organisations regarding safeguarding, funding, grants and much more.

In our parish we provide a free meal for the elderly at Christmas and provide food parcels twice a year. We make an appeal annually in church for support through prayer and money. Other counties are supported if their need is great. The majority of the work goes on regularly in the background, quietly and confidentially.

After attending Mass, we hold a meeting once a fortnight to discuss any concerns, future visits and needs. More regular meetings take place between the chairperson and treasurer to discuss finances and report to head office. Currently there are 10 members. Some are Eucharistic ministers as well. All meetings, discussions, visits, offers of assistance are confidential. The valuable work of the S.V.P. goes on quietly, targeted, understated, confidentially and with love.