Our History
Standing alongside local people for over three decades
We used to do a meal on a Wednesday night and a Sunday night for any homeless people and we used to get a good number, about 20+, of people coming to that. Of course at that time there was nothing for homeless people in Worthing at all. But then there was the other group of people, with Rupert Bacon, and various other people from Worthing Churches Together who were trying to get a hostel. And they eventually got the Queen St hostel, which wasn’t terribly suitable, and then they got Byron Road.
Ann Maggs
1990–1991: Where it all started
A small group of visionary Christians began supporting rough sleepers in Worthing. At the instigation of Rev Rupert Bacon, Worthing Council of Churches purchased its first property on Buckingham Road. In January 1996, Rev Bacon was awarded an OBE for his dedication to the cause.
1992: WCHP is formed
What began as the caring deeds of a few volunteers grew into a formal charity: Worthing Churches Homeless Projects (WCHP).
1993: Hostel doors open
Queen’s Lodge was converted into a hostel, welcoming people experiencing homelessness in Worthing.
1994: Future secured
WCHP purchased Byron Road, securing a permanent base for its expanding services.
1996: Housing Act
The Housing Act laid the groundwork for statutory duties around homelessness, shaping the support WCHP and local authorities could provide.
1998: Adapting to change
2 Queens Road, a stepping-stone facility, was sold due to the high costs of 24-hour staffing. At the same time, Frazer Lodge in Wykeham Road opened, offering vital support for people moving towards independence.
1999: Growing recognition
Awareness of WCHP’s work increased and vital partnerships developed. Bishop Lindsay, Anglican Bishop of Horsham, described WCHP as “The Jewel in the Crown of West Sussex.”
2002: Homelessness Act and expansion
Alongside the Housing Act of 1996, the Homelessness Act set out duties for local authorities, including providing advice, assistance, and accommodation. In the same year, St Clare’s Day Centre opened in Marine Place, Worthing and WCHP was awarded ‘Investors in People’ recognition for its commitment to staff development.
2005: A pathway out of addiction
The Recovery Project opened, offering a lifeline to people struggling with addiction.
2013-2016: A truly West Sussex charity
Our services expanded beyond Worthing, supporting homeless people across West Sussex.
2018: Same values, new name
WCHP rebranded as Turning Tides, reflecting our wider work and commitment to supporting people throughout the county.
2025: Largest provider in the county
Turning Tides is now the largest provider of support for single homeless people in West Sussex, helping thousands of people find safety, stability and hope each year.