Budding artists who have been supported by Harp to overcome homelessness have hosted an art exhibition.

The charity, which supports more than 1,000 people every year, was awarded funding from Serving the Homeless allowing the purchase of equipment and materials to make sculptures for the exhibition.

Southend Adult Community College (SACC) also helped by providing expertise, guidance and support with the project.

The art exhibition was held in Southend town centre in collaboration with the Cultural Assembly, which kindly provided the free exhibition space in Victoria Plaza.

Helping at the festival was Paul Hand, 64, who was made homeless in December and was supported by Harp to access emergency shelter.

Unfortunately, his health deteriorated and he spent the festive season in hospital.

He underwent heart surgery and was later discharged.

He said: “If I didn’t have a room at Harp I would have been discharged to the streets.”

Paul is now back to good health and has successfully found a home of his own with Harp’s support, and is now enjoying volunteering for the charity.

He said: “I would like to think I am an inspiration to those at Harp, both as a former resident and because of what I’ve been through.

“I have made several good friends and have grown as a person over these last few months. I was quite distressed when I came to Harp, but I am now moving on and I hope to support others to do the same.” Volunteer at harpsouthend.org.uk