Community comes together to share message of hope this Christmas

Exeter-based charity Julian House unveiled its Christmas tree in Princesshay last week, decorated with handmade baubles created by students from Petroc’s Tiverton campus.

The Christmas Tree showcases the talents of Petroc students Harvey Hogan, Harvey Butler and Connor Pearce, under the guidance of their lecturer, Roger Edgecombe.

Displayed on each bauble is a "message of hope" written by Julian House clients, staff, members of the public and the housing team at Exeter City Council.

Julian House supports rough sleepers and people at risk of, or recovering from, homelessness in Exeter.

This tree unveiling was part of the charity’s annual Christmas Appeal.

It comes at a time when homelessness is rising sharply, with a 32% increase in rough sleeping across Devon last year (Rough sleeping snapshot in England: autumn 2023 - www.gov.uk). 

Despite the rising number of people in need of support, Julian House is warning that its future funding is at risk – and the public’s response to this Christmas Appeal will make all the difference to their projects.

“This Christmas tree is more than just a decoration, for us it is an opportunity to promote compassion, strength, and community support, the handmade baubles and messages of hope are a reminder of the impact that each of us can have on the lives of those in need.

"We’re very grateful to the students at Petroc for their generous support, and we hope the tree brings comfort and joy to those who are visiting Princesshay this season!” said Grace Dearson, Senior Fundraiser for Julian House.

Julian House joins 34 other local charities who have all decorated trees which are currently displayed in Princesshay. The community messages aim to spread hope, resilience, and holiday cheer to those who may need it most this season.

Visitors to the Princesshay are encouraged to take a moment to read these words and consider supporting Julian House’sChristmas Appeal – helping the charity to provide life-changing and life-saving support for some of Devon’s most vulnerable people, this Christmas and every day of the year.  

The Julian House Tree of Hope is situated in Princesshay.