Michael House Charity

The Lord-Lieutenant, Angus Campbell attended for a wonderful afternoon tea event, in support of Michael House, at Hotel Collingwood. The Afternoon Tea was hosted by Michelle and Eytan Krips (owners of Hotel Collingwood), and supported by Simon Scarborough, to recognise the crucial work Michael House provides the local community. Michaels pioneered the first Night Shelter in Dorset. Their aim is to support individuals to overcome barriers and gain the confidence to become work ready or to find ways to utilize their skills within the community.

Michaels is Homeless Charity, established in 1992. It pioneered the first Night Shelter in Dorset. In 2000, the Charity opened Michael House which was originally a 12 bed Hostel. In 2003, thanks to the support from The Valentine Trust, an opportunity arose for the Charity to expand the service when the adjoining property came on to the market thus allowing Michaels to merge the two properties. In 2008 Michaels purchased the neighbouring building to create a move-on pathway for our residents. This meant they could move into a semi-supported environment, before moving into independent accommodation.

Representatives from Michael House were invited to attend a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in June 2017, to celebrate being awarded the ‘Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service’ – the highest honour bestowed to voluntary groups. This is a tremendous achievement for the charity and a testimony to everyone involved, particularly our volunteers, without whom we couldn’t provide our unique and person-centred services.

The residents have created an amazing space for nature at Michael House and in 2017, the team of resident/volunteer gardeners achieved Bournemouth in Bloom status, First Place in Dorset Wildlife Trust’s ‘Wildlife Friendly Garden’ Competition and Level 4 within The Royal Horticultural Society’s ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ (Britain in Bloom) Competition.

Michaels next aim is to find more appropriate accommodation for our residents, with the view to becoming the trusted independent move-on accommodation for those who have moved through our pathway, so that we can break the fear and financial barriers of independent living.