Hub Survey Results
With the Echo reporting on the recent issues surrounding 'The Hub' it was interesting to note that one local Church decided to actually speak to the Dorchester community to see what local people actually think. 93% of people think that 'The Hub' is doing a great job. Acland Road Church, sited in the soon to be developed car park behind Waitrose, spoke to nearly 250 people during a week of activities and opening it's doors daily to the public. "We know this is a hot potato but with so much being written about 'the Hub' we thought it would great to actually ask the Town what they thought, and people were very open" commented Roger Frapwell, leader at Acland Road. Regarding the issue of rough sleepers, the survey revealed that only 6% of the community feel that they should be moved on. "We weren't just surprised by these figures", Roger continued, "we were surprised when we laid on a Saturday breakfast for some of these guys recently. They were so grateful that we lost count of the number of 'thank yous' we received. Providing a breakfast is not a solution, and we know that, but it is doing something and that's a start" One of the volunteers from 'The Hub' was also at the breakfast. He explained the complexity of some of the issues surrounding homeless people. "It's not just about getting a house because their lifestyle remains unchanged." As well as asking questions related to 'The Hub' Acland Road Church explored peoples' spirituality too. The results are listed below. "With whatever people are saying there is the challenge to respond positively", said Roger Frapwell, "including the area of spirituality too, where so many people seem to speak of their beliefs but talk of having so intention of coming to a Church to explore this further! Ironically those who do are usually pleasantly surprised!" Acland Road Church meets three times on Sundays at 9.30, 11.00, and 6.00pm, but now the weekly messages can be also listened to via their newly updated website www.aclandroadchurch.org.uk. Have a listen!
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