Coventry

Coventry: Seven Stories of Forgotten People

THESE ARE hard times for the poor. Not many would argue with that. UK Government austerity measures have meant that increasing numbers of people are unable to make ends meet. Food banks are busier than ever (according to an article in the Guardian, three open every week) and recent headlines reveal that child poverty is again on the increase. Over 6 million people are unemployed or underemployed and benefits and the minimum wage rates are falling well behind that of inflation. Key charities are struggling financially, leaving some of our most vulnerable citizens badly in need of support.

Coventry: A case of changed identity

MY FRIEND Dave works in the kitchen at one of our Jesus Centres. When he’s not making breakfasts for the many homeless and disadvantaged people who come into the centre, Dave is also their sometime counsellor, occasional medic and – always – their good friend.

But Dave didn’t always do this sort of thing. At one time he had a very different sort of job. Some years back he was an altogether different kind of character.

A few months ago a chap called Will came to work with Dave, helping him to cook, wash up and generally run the busy kitchen. Will is a Christian, interested in the work of the Jesus Centre, wanting to play his part.

Dave had a funny feeling that he knew Will, but couldn...