At The Belfrey, our Social Transformation vision is rooted in the belief that the gospel of Jesus has the power to transform lives, and we seek to show God’s love in practical ways to the people of York, being a blessing to our city. We prioritise those who are vulnerable or facing hardship, creating spaces where people are known, loved, and find a true sense of belonging, and we take part in our church’s mission of Pray, Give, Grow by praying for transformation, giving generously of our time and resources, and growing our vision and impact. Our work falls under three key areas, identified as local York priorities -  poverty, mental health and young people and families. We run a range of services and ministries for the people of York, that aim to bring practical support, hope, and lasting change.

  • The Belfrey partners with York Christians Against Poverty (CAP) to offer free debt support in York through home visits. The Belfrey CAP team has already helped people become debt-free from nearly £200,000 of debt. Anyone needing help can call 0800 328 0006 or visit the CAP website - capuk.org to book an appointment, and if you would like to help or volunteer as a befriender, click the giving button. 

    Our debt coach and befrienders visit individuals and families to support them. If you’d like help or would like to know more please ring 0800 328 0006 or visit the CAP website. More info

  • The Belfrey offers a friendly and affordable, professional counselling service in partnership with Wellspring Therapy and Training, available to adults (18+) living in the York area, providing a safe, confidential space where people can feel accepted and supported through challenges such as anxiety, depression, loss, relationships, and more. More info

  • The Belfrey partners with Safe Families, a UK charity supporting children and families through difficult times by connecting them with local befrienders who offer friendship and practical help. More info

  • Serving York is a key part of life at the Belfrey, with volunteering as one of the main ways the church engages in social transformation, encouraging people to take part in small one-off projects while sharing Jesus’ love across the city. More info

  • The Belfrey partners with York Foodbank, part of the Trussell network, serving as a Saturday morning distribution point at the De Grey Rooms. More info

  • The Belfrey’s Community Parish Nurse service supports individuals in improving and maintaining their wellbeing through nurse-led advice, education, and practical support, complementing NHS and statutory services. More info

  • The Belfrey is a Welcome Church. This means that we are part of the Welcome Church Network, a Christian charity helping to link asylum seekers and refugees to a local church where they can find a church family who will love them and support them in what can be a traumatic and uncertain time. More info

We’re also supporting the No One Left Behind project, which has a vision to see a significant reduction in all forms of poverty across York within the next 10 years, through the ministry of churches and Christian charities in the city. This began in early 2025 in partnership with One Voice York, Gather Movement and Christians Against Poverty. 

 
 

How to get involved in Social Transformation at the Belfrey

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with our Social Transformation ministries. Please complete this form and someone from the team will follow up with you.

 
I want to Give Financially
I want to give to Safe Families