Good Shepherd Services

Good Shepherd Services is a charitable incorporated organisation based in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom, focused on ending homelessness and alleviating poverty in the local community. Registered with the Charity Commission under number 1165909, the organisation provides a range of support services to homeless and disadvantaged individuals and families in and around Wolverhampton.

History and Mission

Since its establishment, Good Shepherd Services has aimed to combat homelessness and poverty through practical assistance and support programmes. Beginning in 2003 with a regular food service in the city, the charity has since expanded its offerings to meet broader needs, including housing advice, a day centre, and supported lettings schemes within the private rental sector.

Services and Programmes

Good Shepherd Services delivers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support vulnerable populations and promote self-reliance and recovery. Key activities include:

• Provision of hot meals and showers to those in immediate need.
• User support programmes addressing accommodation, addiction, and mental health challenges.
• Housing advice and referral services aimed at securing stable accommodation.
• Meaningful activity programmes to engage service users and encourage skill development.
• Supported lettings schemes in the private rental market to facilitate access to housing.

Additionally, the organisation collaborates with food partners to reduce food waste and tackle hunger by supplying a variety of nutritious meals, including meat, fish, pies, vegetables, and desserts.

Volunteer Involvement

Volunteering is an integral part of Good Shepherd Services, with volunteers involved in running dining room operations, providing classes such as cooking and art, and supporting service users through various engagement activities. This involvement helps build a positive peer network and community spirit among beneficiaries.

Impact and Community Engagement

Good Shepherd Services supports some of the most vulnerable and marginalised people in Wolverhampton, offering practical help and a listening ear to those experiencing hardship. Through partnerships and collaborations, the charity creates pathways out of poverty by assisting service users in accessing employment, training, and education opportunities.

Governance and Staff

The organisation is governed by a board of trustees and supported by a team that includes paid employees and volunteers. As of the latest reports, Good Shepherd Services has 23 employees, 9 trustees, and 45 volunteers, all contributing to its mission to end homelessness and support recovery in the community.

Good Shepherd Services exemplifies a committed community charity working tirelessly to provide essential services and support for those in crisis, fostering resilience and helping individuals rebuild their lives in Wolverhampton.

[1] https://www.gsmwolverhampton.org.uk/what-we-hope-to-achieve/ [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1165909&subid=0 [3] https://www.gsmwolverhampton.org.uk [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5076511/what-who-how-where [5] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/CE006839