Matthew Tree Project launching new support programme from October

Main image: The new Citizens’ Voice group of present and past clients meeting at The Matthew Tree Project. Picture: The Matthew Tree Project

A local crisis support charity which had to temporarily pause its operations in May due to funding issues will be launching a new ‘enhanced’ programme from October.

The Matthew Tree Project (TMTP) based on Filwood Broadway has been running in Knowle West since 2013. 

Before the temporary closure, the charity was providing essential crisis support to some 600 vulnerable people and distributing the food equivalent of around 9,000 meals city-wide each week.

Since July it has been able to help existing clients – but from October hopes to have the resources to take on new referrals as well.

The new Rebuilding Lives Plus programme includes a Citizens’ Voice Group made of current and ex-clients who will be able to make decisions on how the service support is delivered. 

The charity will also be providing professional counselling for the first time.

Other ‘enhanced’ elements – which will be introduced as funding is secured between October and December -include welfare and housing advice, financial wellbeing and life skills training as well as job search and application support. 

CEO and founder of TMTP, Mark Goodway says: “…In essence Rebuilding Lives Plus is an enhancement of the work the charity has been delivering since 2010. 

“The programme will focus more time and expertise into helping people address the underlying causes of crisis and removing the barriers that are preventing people rebuilding a healthier, wealthier, happier future.” 

One client who has been using and benefitting from the service says: ““Rebuilding Lives is The Matthew Tree Project ethos. The project provided me with the support I was looking for. They are the friendliest people. They helped me find my confidence.”

For more information visit https://the-matthew-tree-project.org