Question 1

Who runs Door of Hope?

Accepted Answer

Door of Hope is a ministry of Lifespring Church, which is a registered charity (number 1148013). You can find out more about Lifespring at www.lifespringchurch.org.uk. Door of Hope has a staff of six including our Directors, Jim and Heather Herring, and residential support workers, Jacob and Sarah Budd, who live on site with their young family. We also have a management team that meets quarterly with oversight over finances and property maintenance.

Question 2

Where is Hope House located?

Accepted Answer

We are located in central Reading, Berkshire. We prefer to keep the address of Hope House private to protect the privacy of our residents.

Question 3

Who can apply to become a resident?

Accepted Answer

Hope House is for single adult men in recovery from any life-controlling addiction, most commonly to drugs or alcohol. We are a second-stage programme, meaning any potential resident must have already been through detox and some kind of rehabilitation. Our residents do not need to have Christian faith, though an openness to Christianity is strongly recommended.

Question 4

How do I apply to become a resident?

Accepted Answer

If you are interested in applying, you'll need a reference from someone who knows you and your story well - for example your pastor, rehab director or social worker. You can email us at doorofhopelifespring@gmail.com or use the contact form on our home page. If possible, it's a great idea to meet us in person at our weekly recovery group which happens at 2.30 pm on Fridays at Lifespring Church (The Pavilion, 143-145 Oxford Road, Reading, RG1 7UY).

Question 5

Will I have to pay rent?

Accepted Answer

Our residents contribute to rent, meals and bills - however we ensure these costs are affordable for anyone and finances do not prevent anyone from applying. Residents who are not working can generally apply for housing benefit to help cover these costs.

Question 6

What do Hope House residents do in a typical day?

Accepted Answer

Our residents have widely different schedules depending on their health needs and whether they work, volunteer, or study. However, we do have the following structure for everyone:Morning prayers: 8 am weekdaysFamily dinner: 5 pm every dayBible study: 3 pm Wednesdays Friday recovery group: 2.30 pm at Lifespring ChurchSocial (games, movies): 8 pm FridaysChurch: 10.30 am SundaysResidents also engage with weekly 2 to 1 counseling sessions and are strongly encouraged to join a Lifespring church midweek small group.