Richmond's Hope

Richmond’s Hope was chosen to receive the Spring Harvest Faithworks Award 2003 because the judges felt that of the 13 shortlisted projects, it most clearly demonstrates the Christian ethos and values of the Faithworks Movement.  After two years of rigorous research and planning, Richmond Craigmillar Church, a traditional church with few resources situated in the midst of an area of multiple deprivation, has created a safe, attractive, purpose-built haven to help local young children come to terms with traumatic bereavement.  An area of social need in which there is a woeful lack of provision, Richmond’s Hope is demonstrating Christian love in action to some of its community’s most vulnerable members, and has had an impact that is much appreciated by the wider community.  Since the launch of the project in June 2003, this impact has been recognised by government and the media at local and national levels.

Richmond’s Hope presented an outstanding response to the judging criteria for the Award, being:

• A response to a local need

The church’s definition of ‘local’ committed it to serving a rapidly growing community.  An openness and willingness to serve, combined with extensive research into inhabitants needs, allowed the church to clearly identify a means of beginning to meet those needs.

• A reflection of best practice and sustainability

Flexible and equipping management, accounting and evaluation structures, combined with diverse funding sources mean that Richmond’s Hope are well placed to continue, and expand, their provision of care.
 
• Demonstrating innovation

Richmond’s Hope is a pioneering project, the only dedicated programme of its type in the UK.  The use of therapeutic play and creative expression in a context of year-round, one-to-one care provides an innovative package.

• Impacting on the local community

In a community surrounded by demolition and reconstruction, the church is a symbol of stability and security.

• Forging relationships with local government and other agencies

Following liaison and interaction with the education department, the city council, social workers, health workers and teachers, a block release has been granted to any child accepted by Richmond’s Hope.  This progress was recognised by the local MSP Susan Deacon, formerly Minister of Health for the Scottish Parliament when she visited the project.
 
• Receiving coverage in the local media

The project has received coverage in the local, national press (Scotland) and Christian press as well as appearing on national and local radio programmes.

• Planning to further develop its community work

This young project, working to an operational business plan, has exciting plans to spread the care it provides to encompass entire families struggling to come to terms with traumatic bereavement and provide regular after-schools care for the children it works with.

For more information about the work of 'Richmond's Hope', please visit www.richmondshope.org.uk.