Birmingham homeless shelter, Tabor House, is celebrating its fourth anniversary.
Since opening, it has helped people that had previously been sleeping rough to move away from the streets and into more permanent accommodation. This is thanks to the life-changing support, tailored to each guest according to their strengths and ambitions.
One such person is ‘J’, who came to Tabor House in June 2021. An EU national that had lived in the UK for 14 years, he was experiencing homelessness and ill health. J came to Tabor House to recuperate and regain his health so he could begin looking for work.
During his stay, one of Tabor House’s volunteers worked alongside J to place a claim for Universal Credit. He also developed his English skills by attending English lessons offered by a partner agency. Caroline Gorman, a Caseworker at Tabor House, said, “He even attended three English lessons while he was recovering, as he didn’t want to stay in bed and do nothing.”
In less than two months, J has recovered his health, found a full-time job, and secured a flat. He moved out of Tabor House into his own accommodation at the start of September.
J said, “During my first night at Tabor I didn’t sleep at all as I had so much on my mind, and lots of things going around my head. All the Staff and Volunteers are fabulous, and the food is perfect. Thank you for this help but I must stand up on my legs.”
J’s story is one of many success stories witnessed at Tabor House since it opened. And to say thank you to its volunteers, who are instrumental in welcoming and supporting guests, the project staff are throwing a party to celebrate its fourth anniversary.
As part of the celebrations, volunteers, staff and supporters were invited to a celebration evening at the Birmingham Irish Association in Digbeth to share success stories and for prospective volunteers there was also an opportunity for people to find out about volunteering at Tabor House.
