Access Community Trust, a leading local charity, formally celebrated its 50th anniversary this July, marking half a century of homelessness and mental health support. The poignant event, held close to the charity’s original founding date in 1975 as St John’s Housing Trust, reflected on the profound impact the organisation has had on Lowestoft and now across Suffolk and Norfolk, through its growing network of supported accommodation and community hubs.

The milestone celebration, attended by supporters and beneficiaries, highlighted the charity’s unwavering commitment to addressing homelessness and providing vital place-based community services. The evening itself was a resounding success, raising over £14,500 towards Access Community Trust’s ambitious goal of £50,000 in its 50th year.

A truly full-circle moment, the charity was honoured to welcome its very first treasurer and then chairman, Bernard Seagrave-Daly, to the anniversary celebration. Reflecting on the charity’s humble beginnings, Mr Seagrave-Daly stated,

“Fifty years ago, with the decline of the fishing industry and related sectors, homelessness in Lowestoft began to rise and went largely unaddressed. Each night, we provided basic shelter for 40 to 50 men – offering a safe haven when there was nowhere else to go.

“It was about providing basic human dignity. We didn’t have much, but we had heart, compassion and a belief that everyone deserved a safe place to rest their head. To see how that small seed has grown into the thriving Access Community Trust of today, supporting hundreds every night, is beyond what we could have imagined.”

Current CEO of Access Community Trust, Emma Ratzer MBE, who has nurtured the charity from a small, local organisation into a Sunday Times Top 100 Employer, emphasised the ongoing need for support.

“Tonight, we gather not just to reflect on this remarkable journey, but also to look forward,” said Mrs. Ratzer. “Our founding work, back in 1975, was rooted in addressing the critical issue of homelessness in Lowestoft.

“While our name and scope has evolved, that core commitment remains. The need remains profound. We support over 200 people every single night, 365 days a year. This enduring dedication is a testament to an incredible team and our volunteers, both past and present.”

She added that rough sleeping in the East of England has seen a concerning 22% rise in the last year, underscoring the critical need for Access Community Trust’s services.

Adding a unique and artistic dimension to the evening, live illustrator Rebecca Osborne captured the essence of Access Community Trust’s remarkable 50-year journey. Her real-time illustrations brought to life a vibrant timeline, celebrating decades of compassion, resilience, and innovation.

It was a powerful visual storytelling experience, charting the charity’s evolution through the voices of those who have been integral to its success, from founding members like Bernard to the countless dedicated volunteers and staff who have shaped its incredible history.

The evening also welcomed Bradley Adnams, the newly appointed Chair of Trustees for the charity, who expressed his honour in leading the organisation from 2025.

“It is a true honour to step into the role of Chair of Trustees for Access Community Trust, especially as we mark this incredible 50th anniversary,”

The charity’s 50th-year fundraising goal of £50,000 will enable Access Community Trust to continue being a beacon of hope for thousands seeking support in their darkest hour.

Support the vital work of Access Community Trust:

If you are interested in supporting or fundraising for the vital work Access Community Trust does in your community, you can discover ways to contribute on their dedicated fundraising platform by visiting accessct.org/50.

About Access Community Trust: Originally founded in 1975 as St John’s Housing Trust, Access Community Trust has evolved over five decades to become a leading local charity providing comprehensive community support across two counties. While its name and scope have grown, the charity’s core commitment to addressing homelessness and providing essential services remains unwavering. Access Community Trust supports over 200 people every night, 365 days a year, through a range of community hubs and dedicated initiatives.