Brushstrokes supports some of the most vulnerable people in Sandwell, west Birmingham and the Black Country. Working in solidarity with the hidden poor, the project provides essential services in this area of superdiversity. Brushstrokes is a partnership project between Father Hudson’s Care, the Infant Jesus Sisters, the parish of St Philip Neri and the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd.  

Brushstrokes’ services have developed over the years, particularly in response to the needs of newcomers. Brushstrokes engages with asylum seekers and helps them establish a place of safety in the UK. This is a key aspect of our work in and around Smethwick, an area of superdiversity. Brushstrokes welcomes people from over 100 countries.The work with refugees continues to expand, helping them to rebuild their lives and settle into new homes, education and work in Sandwell. The core activities are driven by the needs of the people who use the services, both in the community and those identified on outreach visits.These are:

• The provision of practical resources to destitute and homeless people and those living in extreme poverty, including food, baby products, clothing and other essential items;
• Reaching out into local communities by visiting and befriending isolated and excluded people in their own homes and through welcoming people to its community cafe, which is a designated 'Place of Welcome';
• Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), which also encompasses citizenship, literacy, numeracy and employment skills.

Brushstrokes’ vision is encapsulated in its name, inspired by a phrase of Blessed Nicolas Barré: "We must be in the hands of God like a brush in the hands of the painter." The core activities depend enormously on the support and dedication of volunteers, who are supported by a Project Manager and a small staff team.