Bury Drop In warmly welcomes the news that it has been awarded ​funding from West Suffolk Council’s Thriving Communities Fund 2026/27 to support its project: From Crisis to Stability: A Lifeline in West Suffolk.

Following West Suffolk Council’s approval of £267,000 in community funding, Bury Drop In has secured the largest allocation of £17,500, to strengthen its support for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The Council received 83 applications, and 38 were selected to receive support.

Ally Gill, marketing and communications manager for the charity said: “Over the past year, demand for our services has risen sharply, with more rough sleepers and sofa surfers seeking our support. We’re thrilled to receive this funding and the backing of the West Suffolk Council.”

The volunteer-led charity runs twice-weekly sessions in Bury St Edmunds, providing nutritious meals alongside one-to-one support and signposting in a safe and welcoming space. Guests receive help with housing, mental and physical health, and emergency provisions.

“This funding allows us to reach people at their point of need,” said Sabine Dornbush, general manager at Bury Drop In. “The funding enables us to provide long-time support to homeless and vulnerably housed people in the local community. In January, three of our guests were able to move on from homelessness into independent tenancies.”

Bury Drop In works closely with West Suffolk Council’s Rough Sleeper Service and is supported by partner agencies including NHS Health Outreach, Jobcentre Plus, the Samaritans and Suffolk Sexual Health Services, who attend sessions to provide face to face advice. To help us continue this vital work, we encourage local residents and organisations to get involved, whether by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word.