On Tuesday March 17th, we welcomed Timon Robins from Betel UK. He was here to talk about the work they do as a Christian charity, which helps men, women and families overcome the problems of social exclusion, such as homelessness, drug and alcohol abuse and long term unemployment. They transform lives through faith, community and meaningful work.
Timon explained that Betel UK evolved from the work that WEC missionaries were doing on the streets of Spain to becoming a global enterprise spanning 17 nations including Mexico, Brazil and India, in more than 100 cities.
Betel UK was established in 1996 and currently helps around 270 people at 14 residential placements in 11 UK urban areas.
He went on to say that there are many aspects to their work including Praise & Worship nights, as well as landscape gardening, a restoration shed and furniture sales business, clearance shops, cafes and also the hiring out of soft play areas and a convention venue.
Timon rounded off the talk by giving his own personal journey. His life had become unstable at 16 with drug abuse. He served prison time in his early 20s for drug dealing and his whole lifestyle existed around the taking of heroin and crack cocaine for 20 years until he was in his early 40s. Only after hitting rock bottom and contacting Betel UK was he able to turn his life around.
He has been happily married for 15 years and has worked extensively throughout Betel UK’s national operation.
A very uplifting and inspiring talk.
MIRTH 