Ben joins the Friary with experience gained from time working for a local Women’s charity as Community Development Manager and interim CEO. Previously he worked for two high street banks as a Business Relationship Manager.
Here Ben provides an introduction to himself and his thoughts on the Friary:
“The enjoyment and reward I get from being the leader of charity meant that it was the natural progression for me to apply for the job at the Friary. I am thrilled to have been offered it by the Trustees. I hope I can continue to deliver the great work of former CEO Sam Crawford.
I grew up in West Bridgford and remember when the Friary was established back in 1988. The incredible and tireless work of Ann Bremner and her team to support the homeless is an inspiration to us all. My role is to ensure that this work can be sustained and developed further as austerity continues to challenge society.
The relationship between visitors to the centre and the staff/volunteer team here is at the heart of the difference that we can make. The Friary is an opportunity for those living incredibly challenging lives, to take time out in a supportive and caring environment. We are able to then provide them with time and space to consider their options relating to their benefits, housing, general health and anything else that relates to their well-being.
It is the incredible generosity and support of local people, businesses and other organisations in West Bridgford and the wider Rushcliffe Borough that allows this work to continue. The level of donations that we receive to ensure we can provide hot meals and provide clothing to visitors to our centre is heart-warming.
Having worked within the voluntary sector for a number of years, I have absolutely no doubt that the existence of organisations such as the Friary is crucial to the support of vulnerable individuals. There are so many dedicated and highly skilled health and social care professionals out there, but they can only provide support with the help of grassroots charities. Trust is the most important factor in any relationship and the level of trust built up between visitors to the service and staff/volunteers is the main factor behind the Friary being able to continue to deliver the support we do.”
