'Homeless support project has kept me alive'

Paul said without the support of The Roost he would have nothing

A man has thanked a homeless support project for "saving him" and "keeping him alive".

Based out of Yeovil Community Church, The Roost has helped more than 1,000 people since it began during the pandemic.

The Roost offers support including hot meals, finding accommodation, laundry, showers, clothing, and food parcels.

Service user Paul, said: "If I didn't have this, I'd have nothing. I would literally not be alive if it wasn't for them."

The service also includes emotional and psychological support, something project lead Bridget Doney said makes the biggest impact.

"Homelessness isn't just about housing," said Ms Doney.

"People come to us with years of trauma, poor mental health, addiction, and a deep sense that they're not worth helping. We try to show them they are," she added.

Ms Doney, who was already a part of Yeovil Community Church, said she felt compelled to set up the service after witnessing people needing help during the pandemic.

"The world felt overwhelming, but this was something right on my doorstep. I couldn't fix everything, but I could do something."

Paul became homeless after separating with his wife and has called The Roost a "godsend".

"It means I can keep a sense of pride. It has saved me and I'd be lost otherwise," he added.

Bridget Doney said while the work is challenging, the joy and victories far outweigh the setbacks

Nominated in the Community Group category of the BBC Radio Somerset Make a Difference Awards, Ms Doney said it was a recognition of the team's tireless effort and the lives they continue to change.

"We're a small team but what we're seeing here in Yeovil is big," said Ms Doney.

In 2024, The Roost supported 572 individuals, with numbers already approaching 450 in 2025.

Ms Doney said: "Seeing people rediscover their worth, it's incredible."

The Roost hosts a drop-in service twice a week, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am-2pm.