Tiverton Charity Combats Homelessness with Compassion and Strategy
CHAT, a Tiverton charity, is dedicated to addressing homelessness through strategic initiatives and community support
Tiverton, UK, Homelessness, Charity, Community Support
Tiverton: When you step into the world of Churches Housing Action Team (CHAT), you can really feel their commitment to fighting homelessness. They’re all about giving hope to those who need it most.
Clive Williams, who’s been the chair of this Mid Devon charity for a few months now, takes this mission to heart. After years in banking, he’s all about making a real difference in the community.
“I’ve never been homeless myself,” Clive shares, “but hearing our clients’ stories makes it impossible not to care. That’s what drives me every day.”
Clive’s journey to CHAT started after he retired from HSBC Bank. He wanted to give back to his local community, and as a Methodist church member, he found a perfect match with CHAT’s mission.
“It felt like the right fit,” he says. “CHAT’s values align with mine, and I hope to contribute meaningfully in the coming years.”
Even with his banking background, Clive emphasizes that CHAT isn’t about running a tight ship like a corporation. It’s about using resources wisely to help those in need.
Like many charities, CHAT is facing rising demand and shrinking funds. “Providing our services is getting more expensive, and grants are harder to come by,” Clive explains. “We need to find new ways to generate income.”
To tackle this, CHAT has started the “Giver of Hope” program, aiming to recruit 30 new donors by March 2025. This will help fund a part-time advisor for clients dealing with debt.
“Every little bit helps,” Clive insists. “It’s all about building financial stability so we can keep meeting community needs.”
CHAT’s success relies on teamwork, not just with its staff and volunteers but also with local churches and businesses.
“CHAT was founded 30 years ago by a group of Christians responding to housing needs, and that connection is still crucial,” Clive notes. “Churches provide support, and we partner with groups like Rotary and local schools for food collections and fundraising.”
Volunteers are essential to CHAT, contributing the equivalent of five full-time staff hours. Their dedication earned CHAT the Investing in Volunteers award in 2023.
When it comes to homelessness, Clive sees the complex relationship between government support and charity work. “During the pandemic, we saw how much can be done when the government acts decisively. But there’s still a gap for those who don’t meet certain requirements, and that’s where CHAT steps in.”
CHAT collaborates with Mid Devon District Council to ensure fair treatment for clients and avoid duplication of efforts. They also work with Exeter Community Energy to tackle fuel poverty, offering energy-saving advice.
As CHAT celebrates its 30th anniversary, Clive is both reflective and forward-looking. “It would be amazing to think that in five years, homelessness and hunger will be gone,” he says. “But realistically, we need to stay resilient and ready for future challenges.”
Plans include expanding debt advice services and boosting donations to lessen reliance on grants. “It won’t be easy, but it’s a challenge we have to face,” Clive asserts.
Clive’s optimism shines through, rooted in his belief in CHAT’s mission and the support from the community. “CHAT is here to bring hope to those who need it most. With continued community support, I’m confident we can achieve great things.”
If you want to help CHAT’s important work, consider becoming a Giver of Hope or making a donation. Every bit helps provide housing advice and support to families in Mid Devon. Check out www.chatmid.org for more info.