Church reopening despite anti-social behavior.

St John's Church in Glastonbury, Somerset, is set to gradually reopen after a partial closure due to anti-social behavior in its graveyard. The church aims to create a safer environment by introducing coffee mornings and recruiting volunteers to assist visitors. CCTV cameras will also be installed for added security.

St John's Church, located in Glastonbury, Somerset, which had partially closed last year due to repeated incidents of anti-social behaviour in its graveyard, is set to gradually reopen to the public. The church had limited its access previously, allowing entry only for weddings, funerals, and Sunday services, following incidents of drinking and drug use in the churchyard. This restriction was implemented as a direct response to the growing concerns over anti-social activities taking place on the premises.

Church Leadership Addresses Ongoing Issues

Reverend Alice Watson acknowledged that anti-social behaviour remains a significant concern, yet she emphasized that the gradual reopening of the church would foster a safer and more inviting atmosphere. "Opening the church and transforming it into a space that people want to visit is likely the best course of action," she stated. Watson also pointed out the need for volunteers to help manage the reopening, suggesting that anyone with a couple of free hours each week could assist by being present at the church to greet visitors. This effort is seen as an important step toward positively transforming the churchyard into a more community-oriented space.

Background on Partial Closure

The church initially reduced its operating hours in May of the previous year, following a surge in anti-social incidents. Reverend Watson noted that the situation had worsened during the winter months, particularly in the churchyard and the porch areas. The partial closure, while necessary, was met with understanding from the local community, although many residents expressed disappointment over the restricted access to the church. Despite this, the community largely supported the church's decision in light of the circumstances.

Plans for Reopening and Community Engagement

The church's reopening will be gradual, with several afternoons each week designated for public access. As part of the effort to foster community engagement, the church will host coffee mornings to encourage residents to come together. In addition, plans are underway to install CCTV cameras in the churchyard to enhance security and monitor any potential anti-social activity. Church warden David Smith stressed the importance of promoting positive use of the churchyard and expressed hope that volunteers from the church, local community, and regular groups would participate in this effort. He noted that the presence of friendly and welcoming individuals would be key in creating a safe environment for visitors and in providing assistance to anyone with questions about the church or its services.

Community Support and Volunteer Efforts

Smith highlighted the critical role that volunteers will play in the reopening process. Volunteers will not only help reduce anti-social behaviour, but also create a more positive and inviting atmosphere for the church's visitors. "Many people in the town were very disappointed to see the closure, but they were also incredibly supportive of the decision and the reasons behind it," Smith explained. He further added, "Our hope is to have volunteers from various segments of the community, including the church, local council, and groups that regularly use the church. The key is to have friendly faces available, welcoming people into the church and offering assistance when needed."

Next Steps

• Gradual reopening of St John's Church to the public, with several afternoons dedicated to public access each week.
• Introduction of coffee mornings and other community-oriented events within the church to promote involvement and engagement.
• Installation of CCTV cameras in the churchyard to monitor and deter anti-social behaviour.
• Recruitment of volunteers to maintain a welcoming and secure environment for all visitors.

The reopening of St John's Church marks the beginning of a broader plan to revitalize the churchyard and foster stronger community engagement. The church's leadership and volunteers aim to ensure that the church remains a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for all who wish to visit, helping to promote a sense of unity and safety within the local area.

Sources:

• Church reopens after anti-social behavior incidents in Glastonbury
• St John's Church in Somerset to Gradually Reopen Despite Anti-Social Behavior
• Glastonbury Church to Reopen, Volunteers Needed to Help Reduce Anti-Social Behavior
• Church hit by anti-social behaviour to reopen