St Petrocs is looking for people it helped in Cornwall since 1986

Somewhere in Cornwall, and probably well beyond it, are thousands of people whose lives crossed paths with the same charity at one of their hardest moments. Forty years on, that charity would like to know how they are doing.

A 40th anniversary appeal

St Petrocs, the Cornish charity working to end homelessness, is inviting people it has supported over the past four decades to get in touch and share their experiences as it marks World Homeless Day 2026.

The charity was established in Cornwall in 1986. Since then it has supported thousands of people experiencing homelessness, helping them find accommodation, stability and a route towards a safe and secure home.

As part of its anniversary year, St Petrocs wants to reconnect with those people and find out how they are getting on now.

What people can share

Anyone who has received support from the charity can share whatever they feel comfortable talking about. That could be their experience of homelessness, the support they received, what helped them move forward, or an update on how life is now.

St Petrocs hopes the experiences will show the lasting impact that ending homelessness can have, while challenging perceptions of homelessness and giving others hope for the future.

Lois Wild, Head of Engagement at St Petrocs, said: “As we mark 40 years, we want to honour the journeys of the people we have supported. Their courage, strength and achievements drive everything we do and by sharing these experiences, we hope to inspire others and show the lasting difference our work can make.”

Anonymous if preferred

People can choose how they would like to contribute and can share as much or as little as they wish. Contributions can be anonymous.

With permission, experiences may be featured in St Petrocs’ communications, including its website, social media, publications and events. Anyone taking part will be given information about how their contribution may be used.

There is no expectation to take part, and choosing not to engage will not affect any current or future support.

How to get involved

Those who would like to take part can complete a short online form on the St Petrocs website to express their interest and say how they would prefer to participate.

A member of the St Petrocs team will then make contact to discuss their experience and preferences before anything is shared.