Who are the SVP? 
What do people who volunteer in local SVP groups actually do?  
The aim of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society is simple:  
To love our neighbour as ourselves and to seek to alleviate poverty, whether material or social.  Showing this love takes many forms, but the essence of our work is person-to-person contact and spending time with people, giving them a sense of belonging. 

In our area: 

• We visit and befriend people who may be isolated in their home, in hospital or in care. 
• We take beneficiaries to appointments, to church, to go shopping, on walks or out for coffee. 
• We provide material support to help those who may be struggling to buy food or pay energy costs. As children grow, we help with new school uniforms. 
• As children cannot learn when hungry, we support a primary school breakfast club. 
• We help with washing when families have inadequate facilities. 
• We collect decent items of clothing and household goods to give to those in need of basic necessities. We support people in half way houses trying to make a fresh start in their lives. 
• We may give a moment or a lifetime of support, but always our mission is to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, empowering them to achieve their ambitions. 

None of this is possible without the generosity of those who donate to the SVP - THANK YOU! 

If you know someone who might need help or you'd like a chat about what joining might involve, speak to a member in your parish, or call 07548 937287.

The SVP is not only in Boldmere!
The St Vincent de Paul Society (or as it is often known - the SVP) is an international Christian organisation. Catholic in origin and character it is dedicated to helping anyone in need. The concept of need is broadly based, so visiting the sick, the lonely, the addicted and those suffering from disabilities form a large proportion of the Society's work.
Click here for the National SVP website. 
It is a registered charity, with Registered Charity number: 1053992 

Who we help

• The SVP is non-discriminatory, helping those in need regardless of their faith, colour, or sexual orientation. It is non-judgemental and does not make value judgements about those asking for assistance. In short the society will aim to help anyone in need if it is within the local membership’s capability.

Do you know of someone who might appreciate our help?

• If so please speak to Father Allen or contact us directly via 07548 937287

Visits

• All initial visits are carried out in pairs and all our members have been checked by the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). We never share any information about you (beyond the people in SVP) without your permission unless we think you are at risk.

Interested in joining and helping us to help?

• Are you caring and compassionate?
• Are you a good listener and able to keep confidences?
• Are you respectful and non-judgemental of others?
• Can you spare some time each week?

            If ‘Yes’ please consider joining us. 
            We meet fortnightly for an hour and visit for approximately an hour once a week.

St Vincent de Paul
Frederick Ozanam and the founding of the SVP

St Vincent de Paul

Frederic Ozanam