Genesis Life Projects is about trusting relationships
As we’ve demonstrated in our Spring Appeal, loneliness is a serious problem in our community. At Genesis Life Projects we see the effects of this with our clients. That’s why we create belonging through a person-centred, relational approach to supporting local homeless and vulnerable people. Clients can move between our projects seamlessly, building a healthy community and support network.
Nathan Gale joined the Genesis Life Projects team in January 2025 as an Engagement and Support Worker. We’ve asked him a few questions about how he helps provide community at Genesis Life Projects.
Nathan, what did you do before you worked for Genesis?
I was working in outreach mission in Twerton for 12 years; the last 4 of which I launched the Lighthouse Ministry which supports people in the Twerton community. I am married with four kids and studied at Westminster Theological College.
What is your role at Genesis Life Projects?
I work primarily at Lifeline, our drop-in centre. I also run two Life Skill activities: SMART Recovery (our addiction support group) and the Faith Group.
How have you seen the impact of loneliness and isolation with our clients?
There is, of course, a high level of loneliness and isolation as most of our clients are sleeping rough or live alone. This can cause depression and social anxiety. This leads to a lack of confidence which then feeds the loneliness even more as people slip deeper into a hole.
How is the relational, person-centred approach helping our clients build a healthy community?
Our personal, relational approach is, in my opinion, the best way to engage with clients who are wrestling with these issues. It’s far less intrusive and laid back and, as such, encourages our guests not just to chat with us but have the confidence to mix with others at the Lifeline drop-in centre.
We can also refer guests who visit our drop-in centre to other activities within Genesis Life Projects, like Life Skills or Life Recovery. Here they can learn something new which builds confidence and interact with others with the goal to build a healthier community of friends around them.
What do you think are the benefits for our clients in engaging with Genesis Life Projects in the context of loneliness?
It does exactly what is says on the tin. It offers a safe, non-judgmental place for all to come and find support and community. Because of our compassionate support and our integrated projects that our clients can seamlessly move between, they can build deeper friendships and support each other because many of our clients have shared experience.
To find out more about how Genesis Life Projects is tackling loneliness in our community, please see our Spring Appeal. Thank you for being part of the Genesis Trust network of support.
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