Reflections from Frances Novillo, our new Lead Chaplain:
It's been three weeks (and a bit) since I started working as your Lead Chaplain here in Watford Town Centre. I've met many of the Street Angels and their amazing Team Leaders who have kept the project running over the years. I've heard from other agencies in the town, including the police and other charities, how valued the contribution of Street Angels is overnight at the weekends when our pubs and clubs are thriving. We certainly had plenty to keep us busy on A-Level results night, celebrating with those who'd made their grades, providing slippers to some who could walk in high heels no longer, and helping into taxis one or two who'd maybe had a bit too much fun! I've made contact with other organisations who provide chaplaincy in Watford, including Railway Mission UK, Sports Chaplaincy UK, YMCA, and Watford General Hospital, to pool our experience and learn from one another. And I've found out more about how daytime Chaplains can add value to local businesses and retailers as they seek to support the well-being of their staff. I'm drawing on the experience of similar chaplaincy services elsewhere, including Aylesbury Town Centre Chaplaincy, Bluewater, and Canary Wharf.
I'd love to hear from you if you want to join our growing team of volunteers from a diverse range of local churches, as a Street Angel out and about overnight, or as a daytime Chaplain visiting local shops and businesses in the town centre. As our town centre expands, may our chaplaincy service expand likewise.