Former Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams praises Peterborough charity ahead of speech at homeless conference

The event included a keynote speech by Dr Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury, on how churches can engage with the homeless. He then presented awards to Hope into Action tenants who have successfully refrained from drugs and alcohol, remained in work, not re offended, or re-established links with their family over the last 12 months.

Dr Williams said: “I’m a very big admirer indeed of Hope into Action. Providing a home is more than just providing a roof over the head. It provides respect and contact over your life.

Ed Walker, executive director of Hope into Action, said: “Homelessness is an isolating and destructive experience and homeless people are some of the most vulnerable and socially excluded people in our society. We hope this event will encourage more churches to house and meaningfully engage in the lives of the homeless and help them to feel loved.”