A CHARITY dedicated to helping others for more than 140 years has moved into new headquarters to meet its growing needs.
St John of God (SJOG) has taken an office at Lingfield Point, Darlington, where 26 of its staff will be based.
Since its foundation in the North of England SJOG has grown to offer services in 35 locations across the UK – supporting people with learning disabilities and complex care needs as well as older religious communities.
Today its remit also covers the social and health care needs of people who are homeless and have been subjected to modern day slavery or trafficking.
SJOG benefits from being part of an international organisation working in 52 countries – all inspired by the example of founder, a Portuguese soldier who became a health care worker in the 1500s.
Paul Bott, Chief Executive, said: “Lingfield Point was chosen because it offers a modern office space for the team here who support our services and the 570 staff we have nationwide.
“The flexibility offers the opportunity to grow as the charity continues to expand its work. The quality, location and natural light are fantastic and were all factors in deciding to base our UK head office here.
“We’re glad that we did. We used to be in separate offices but the open plan lay-out means all departments can sit together, have conversations and swap ideas.
“The team at Lingfield Point could not have been more helpful in getting the offices ready for us to move in to. We look forward to this being a great home.”
Eddie Humphries, Estate Manager at Lingfield Point, said: “We love to welcome new customers to Lingfield Point but it’s clear from the start that SJOG will be very special.
“The work it does is fantastic. The charity is growing and thriving due to the tremendous need for its services we will be proud to support SJOG in any way we can.”
*Lingfield Point is a 90 acre business park in the heart of Darlington – home to large companies and organisations including Capita and Student Loans Company as well as smaller businesses and start-ups.
More than 3,000 workers are based there and make use of the great facilities – from 24 hour security to an onsite café and childcare nursery.