Although our initial intention had been to produce a printed Resources Directory as well as a website version, the considerable cost of an annual update made us decide to use a website only. This will enable us to update entries whenever necessary, rather than once a year only. It also means that any financial donations which we may receive can be used directly to provide practical support for clergy families.
As well as providing useful information about the facilities currently available within the Truro diocese, this website also contains a list of counsellors who are in sympathy with the aims of The Lydia Trust, together with details provided by them. Many are willing to treat clergy at a reduced fee.
Our aim is to gradually extend the resources at present available on the Lydia Trust website. To this end, our next step is to create a list of complementary health practitioners throughout the county who would be willing to treat clergy families at a reduced fee, in return for free advertising on this website. Whilst we are aware that some people question the validity and usefulness of complementary medicine, we feel that its increasing acceptance in recent years makes such a venture worthwhile.
In the long term, our hope is that The Lydia Trust will be able to provide a prayer-centred 'house of hospitality' which would include a bolthole facility. This would provide a safe environment which could offer anything from coffee and a listening ear, to a meal or a massage.
Though enthusiasm has been expressed for this idea, its realisation may be some years away. No doubt it will unfold, as has the rest of the Trust's work, in God's good time.
One day, too, we hope and pray, lay people in other dioceses will form their own branches of The Lydia Trust to meet whatever needs exist in their own area.