Advocacy at Washington Court

Our job is all about showing the love of God in any way we can. It’s to do with living out Jesus’ teaching in Matthew chapter 25 – treating all residents, many of whom are extremely vulnerable, with dignity and respect.

For those who have no voices ...

BCM works towards the resettlement of residents back into the community. Resettlement Management at Washington Court is often complex and involved. Much of the work revolves around the benefits system. Many of our residents are on disability benefits, which help them with their mobility.

Sometimes too we have to do what the Bible says and ‘speak for those who have no voices’. We find ourselves having to challenge the very complex benefits system at all levels, being involved in tribunals and much advocacy on behalf of many residents.

It is a privilege to be in a position of being able to help hundreds of people in this kind of situation. It can be demanding and draining work and would not be possible without the understanding and encouragement of wives, families and supporters.

There are times when we face the prospect of moving a resident into a flat with just a blanket and a few things hastily put together. We are always in need of funding because the welfare benefits system does not provide every person with a grant or loan to buy furniture. We need to buy ‘starter boxes’ and to provide people who are moving on with money to buy low priced furniture and household items from our Resource Centre.

As a team of staff we are constantly aware of our need to express the love of God to our residents as well as being ‘salt’ and ‘light’ in the city. We are also conscious that our role is becoming increasingly complex as we seek to care for the whole person through this work.

Please pray for us and support the work if you are able. If you would find it helpful to spend a few minutes looking at the Washington Court project, please contact us.