Below are some of the general questions we are often asked about Urban Saints, but click the links above for more specific questions about staying at Westbrook if you are a parent or group leader.
WHO ARE URBAN SAINTS?
Urban Saints is an interdenominational youth and children's organisation. We've been supporting and resourcing local youth and children's groups that have a Christian emphasis for well over 100 years and also run special events, holidays, mission experiences and training - and of course the Westbrook Centre!
Many people know of us through our 'Energize' resource. This huge web-based, teaching programme resource currently serves over 1600 churches and community groups around the UK and beyond - click for information. However, we also provide other activities and experiences that local groups can connect with. We work very closely with many other organisations and denominations to ensure that churches and local Christians running outreach or discipleship groups have access to dynamic and engaging youth and children's resources and experiences.
WHAT DOES URBAN SAINTS WESTBROOK DO?
Urban Saints Westbrook is a residential centre that hosts many different groups every year, whether they are church or other youth/children's groups, University Christian Unions, schools, church retreats...etc. Most groups book a residential stay but some come just for a day or part of a day. We also host birthday parties and day conferences, and our swimming pool is used by many local swimming clubs and diving groups.
Many of our visiting groups come to us regularly because time away with us is integral to their group's programme and is often the high point of their year!
DO WE ONLY ACCEPT URBAN SAINTS AND CHURCH GROUPS?
No! We are delighted to welcome all groups that would like to visit Westbrook, regardless of their background. As mentioned above, we have a wide range of different groups visiting us each year, many of whom have little or no Christian connection. However we openly tell everyone who visits the centre that it is a centre founded on a Christian ethos and we ask that groups are respectful of this so that they can enjoy the inclusive, caring welcome we love to give them.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
Urban Saints nationally relies on an army of volunteers - particularly to help run the local Urban Saints groups and camps across the UK. We also value volunteers who come and help at Westbrook. We are always grateful to hear from anyone who would like to offer help in the grounds, with maintenance or to assist in the running of activities for groups.
Westbrook has a paid staff team and opportunities to join the team do come up from time to time - see the 'Join the Team' page, where there is also information about volunteering at the Centre.
DIDN'T URBAN SAINTS USED TO BE CALLED CRUSADERS?
We did! Crusaders became Urban Saints in January 2007 after celebrating our centenary as a movement. The name change was primarily motivated by our conviction that a new brand/image was needed in order to better serve young people in the new century.