A DROITWICH man who has fallen on hard times is camping in Bromsgrove’s St John’s Churchyard while he gets his life back on track.
The Standard was contacted by a resident who saw two tents and wondered why they were there so we contacted vicar Rev Ray Khan.
He said one was owned by a man who was stopping off en route to a new job and that has now gone and the other was owned by Adam who used to work in engineering before he lost his job.
He is hoping find himself a job and a place to live in Droitwich near his family.
When the church became aware he was staying there both Rev Khan and the wardens wanted to speak to him to see if they could help.
And, whilst he does not have permission to be there, the church is happy for him to remain as he is keeping the churchyard clean and tidy.
Rev Khan told The Standard: “We want to handle this situation in a caring manner.
“Adam has respected the churchyard and not left a mess or created a nuisance.
“He does not have our permission to stay but we have not asked him to leave in the hope that we can find a positive outcome for him.”
After speaking to Adam, Rev Khan has been in contact with Wychavon District Council’s Rough Sleepers’ co-ordinator to find out what help might be available.
He is currently in a ‘Catch 22’ situation as without a fixed address he is not entitled to any benefits and has difficulty finding employment but without those he would struggle to find accommodation.
The church is hoping both Adam and his dog can find a settled place to live, as well as a job.
Elaine Salter, Wychavon District Council’s housing services manager, said the authority was aware if the situation.
She added its partner agency Caring for Communities and People (CCP), which provides the Worcestershire Homelessness Prevention Service for single people across the county was working with him to address his homelessness.
“We’re hopeful a solution will be found in the near future.”
Any business which feels it may have an job opportunity for Adam or anyone who can help with accommodation can call The Standard’s newsdesk on 01527 588657 and we will pass the details on via Rev Khan.
