Moving On

Another important development came through a series of complex negotiations with the Borough Council. A joint project between the Council, a Housing Association and the Manna House led to the creation of 5 two-person maisonettes for the homeless on the, up to then , unused 1st floor of the building. The work was completed in July 1993 and the accommodation was officially opened and occupied in September 1993. This 20 year agreement has been working very well since Rt Rev Paul Barber, Bishop of Brixworth and a Manna House patron, opened the flats in 1993.

In July 1995 a short term outreach via the local market was started. A Once-A-Week stall opened up tremendous opportunities to make new contacts and talk to people, informally, about life and faith. This work was suspended due to manning difficulties.

Through a combination of the changing economy, staffing and location, a decision was taken in July 1996 to close the Coffeeshop, after 12 years. Whilst disappointing, this decision has opened up new opportunities for the Bookshop and Counselling Centre.