Bayswater’s beacon of hope

By Marina Williams

In the heart of Bayswater, a small but mighty group of volunteers is making a big difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges and social isolation.

The volunteers run Elm St Mission, a free drop-in centre that has been a beacon of hope and belonging for the past five years, providing a safe and welcoming space for some of the area’s most vulnerable residents.

The mission operates from Bayswater Uniting Church and is open from 10am-noon three days a week during school terms.

Its volunteers are from the community and nearby churches, and a working group, consisting of Bayswater Uniting Church members Joy van Neuren, Marj Smyth, Dr Geoff Stone and Leo van Neuren, and Yarra Yarra Presbytery’s Rob McLean, oversees governance.

“It takes a community to build a safe and welcoming place,” Joy says.

“We create an environment where they can come, connect, and just be themselves.”

And that approach seems to be working.

What started as a small gathering of a few dedicated church members wanting to deepen connections with community has blossomed into a vibrant hub, attracting up to 30 regular participants ranging in age from 34 to 74.

The church volunteers, many of whom are retired but brimming with energy and expertise, are the backbone of the operation, while the participants, with their diverse stories and experiences, are the heart.

Many are residents of local supported accommodation facilities, seeking respite, companionship, and a chance to engage in meaningful activities.

“We have such a diverse group,” Joy says.

“Some struggle with ADHD, autism, or the effects of past trauma, but everyone is accepted exactly as they are.”

Acceptance and unconditional support are at the heart of the Elm St Mission, with volunteers witnessing remarkable transformations.

“We’ve seen participants who were once withdrawn and isolated start to blossom,” Joy says.

“They’re coming in earlier, staying longer, and truly engaging with the community.

“One girl who hardly spoke a word when she first started now greets us all with the biggest smile.

“She’s here most days, joining in the games and activities, and it has been incredible to see.”

Those activities range from art and craft sessions to music, games, dance, and even meditative Tai Chi, followed by a light lunch and there’s always free tea or coffee on offer.

The goal is to provide opportunities for participants to explore their interests and discover hidden talents, boosting their confidence and sense of self-worth in the process.

One young woman, who had been told she was a “lousy artist”, found a newfound sense of pride and confidence when encouraged to express herself through painting.

“When she saw her work displayed on our walls, she was so proud. It was a real turning point for her,” Joy says.

Providing that sense of accomplishment and community is crucial, says Joy, especially for individuals who may have faced significant challenges and setbacks in their lives.

Many of the Elm St participants have experienced trauma, homelessness, or difficulties navigating the complex mental health system.

“Some of them have had so many different support workers that they’ve lost that sense of continuity and stability,” explains Joy.

“But here, they know they can count on us being here, week after week, year after year.”

The mission’s success is not just measured by attendance numbers, but by the subtle shifts in attitude and behaviour.

“We used to have people get up and leave in the middle of an activity,” Joy says.

“Now, we just say, ‘Oh, they’ve gone out for a bit, they’ll be back’.”

Consistency and care have not only benefited the participants but also had a profound impact on the congregation, with more than 50 per cent of the membership involved with the mission.

Joy says their perspectives have been transformed.

“We’ve seen a real shift in the church over the past 15 years,” she says.

“Instead of looking inward, we’re opening our doors and recognising the needs outside our walls.

“And our work with the mission has seen a change in the way our church members view and interact with people dealing with mental health issues.

“Where there may have been judgment or misunderstanding before, now there’s just unconditional love and acceptance.”

Funding the mission has been an ongoing challenge, but the Bayswater Uniting Church community has risen to the occasion.

With support from a Synod mission grant, the Yarra Yarra Presbytery, local grants and donations, the mission has been able to maintain a part-time co-ordinator, and an art and craft community worker, as well as provide a range of activities.

As the mission celebrates its fifth anniversary next month, the team is looking to the future with excitement and determination.

“We want to continue growing, both in terms of volunteers and participants,” Joy says.

“But we also know we have some challenges, like the limitations of our current space, so we’re exploring ways to expand our reach, perhaps by partnering with other local churches and organisations.”

The collaborative approach reflects the mission’s underlying philosophy – that true community is built when people come together, regardless of boundaries and backgrounds.

“It’s not about fixing problems,” Joy says.

“It’s about being with people, listening to them, and creating a space where they can feel safe, valued, and connected.”

Elm St Mission is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am-2pm during school terms. Volunteers are welcome: contact [email protected] or visit www.elmstmission.org.au Follow on Facebook @Elm St Mission