At Bedü, we believe that housing is not just about shelter; it's about creating environments that foster mental well-being. Our hostels run creative projects that help residents and staff build confidence and community spirit.
Launching soon, our Community Café will offer residents vocational training and the opportunity to earn a little money. It will encourage positive interaction with the local community. Residents will learn barista and customer service skills while gaining confidence through real engagement with the public. All proceeds will go directly towards supporting residents staying at our hostels.
We installed rooftop beehives to build trust, discipline and confidence among staff and residents. Beekeeping sparked curiosity, offering a fascinating and therapeutic glimpse into the inner workings of the hive and the quiet order of nature. It brought a touch of the wild into an urban setting, an experience new to many of our residents. Harvesting and sharing the honey felt rewarding, encouraging conversation and a shared sense of pride.
At the height of the pandemic, when most of the world shut its doors, our frontline staff stayed on site to protect and support residents. Our hostels were among the first to introduce full bio-security measures, minimising points of contact by installing automated door magnets, light switches and taps. We continually supplied multivitamins, fresh produce, hot meals, as well as face masks, hand sanitisers, wipes and hygiene products free of charge to all residents.
Our chickens added warmth and life to Miriam Lodge, turning the garden into a lively shared space. The initiative was designed to encourage time outdoors. Residents and staff looked after a colourful flock, each bird with its own name and personality, from Princess Layer to Madonna. Watching the birds roam and share the same space brought light hearted entertainment and helped break the boredom of the day. The daily routine of feeding and tending to the coop brought structure for some residents. Eggs were dated and residents could collect them for their own use.
