Bishop Nicholas Hudson Walks Alongside People Experiencing Homelessness in Cornwall

In Marazion, Cornwall, Wednesday 29th April 2026, St Petrocs was honoured to welcome Bishop Nicholas Hudson from the Diocese of Plymouth on a deeply meaningful visit that embodied solidarity, compassion and hope, as he spent time walking alongside people who are, or who have been, affected by homelessness.

The visit was made alongside Caritas Diocese of Plymouth, with Simon Giarchi, Head of Caritas Plymouth, and Kate Davidson, a newly appointed Trustee of Caritas Plymouth and also a Trustee of the Diocese. Together, they joined St Petrocs’ clients, supporters and staff to learn first‑hand about the charity’s work to end homelessness in Cornwall.

A particularly moving part of the day was a shared walk to St Michael’s Mount, where the group was generously granted exclusive access to the gardens ahead of the season opening. In a powerful expression of accompaniment, Bishop Nicholas chose to walk alongside St Petrocs clients and residents, listening to their stories and sharing time and conversation with those who have experienced homelessness.

The visit also included the warm welcome of Lord and Lady St Levan and time to get to know volunteers and representatives from local Friends groups of the charity and Churches Together. Time was spent with Henry Meacock, Chief Executive of St Petrocs, who shared insight into the charity’s mission, values and the realities faced by people without a secure home.

The day concluded simply and joyfully, with a Cornish pasty on the beach, shared with residents who had joined the visit, creating space for informal conversation, laughter and connection.

Following this, the group visited St Petrocs’ supported accommodation, meeting residents, including some of their much‑loved pets, and hearing directly about people’s lives both before experiencing homelessness and since receiving support. This offered an honest and human insight into the difference that safe housing, dignity and compassionate care can make.

Bishop Nicholas and Caritas Plymouth representatives then visited the Truro Resource Centre during out‑of‑hours service delivery, seeing the breadth of practical, relational and trauma‑informed support provided to people facing homelessness across Cornwall.

Bishop Nicholas said “It was a privilege to spend the day with St Petrocs and to meet those affected by homelessness. We believe that we meet Christ in people experiencing homeless and that they meet Christ in those who make them welcome. I was impressed by the quality of welcome extended by St Petrocs both in their houses and at the Centre. I hope many across the Diocese will support them with their prayer and generosity.”

St Petrocs is deeply grateful for Bishop Nicholas’ visit, and for the time, care and genuine interest shown by Caritas Plymouth. The day reflected a shared commitment to social justice, human dignity and walking together with those who are most vulnerable.
Henry Meacock, Chief Executive of St Petrocs, said the visit was “a powerful affirmation of our work and our values, walking alongside people, listening deeply, and acting with compassion.”

Simon Giarchi, Head of Caritas Plymouth, said “Caritas Diocese of Plymouth and St Petrocs have worked closely for many years and as the new Head of Caritas it was profoundly inspiring to join Bishop Nicholas to spend time with the people they serve and to see St Petrocs vital work for the people of Cornwall”.

St Petrocs extends sincere thanks to all who made the visit possible and values the ongoing partnership, prayerful support and shared mission to bring hope, dignity and practical change to people experiencing homelessness.

Image: St Petrocs Truro Resource Centre – Left to right: Simon Giarchi (Head of Caritas Diocese of Plymouth), Lois Wild (Director of Engagement, St Petrocs), Bishop Nicholas Hudson