Renate Anthony

I have been married to my husband, Julian, for four and a half years, and I am blessed with two grown‑up children, a wonderful son‑in‑law, and four lively grandsons who keep me on my toes. Alongside my family here in the UK, I also sponsor two children overseas—Teresia in Mombassa and Qasid in Pakistan—who remind me daily of the importance of compassion, dignity, and opportunity.

My heart for people in crisis really began to take shape in 2006 when I returned to education as an adult learner. I went on to complete a Joint Honours Degree in Criminal and Community Justice and Youth Justice at the University of South Wales, graduating in 2011. Soon after, I began my role as an Employment Advisor with Newport City Council, supporting long‑term unemployed individuals back into meaningful work—work that I have continued with passion.

My journey with Stuart and Caroline Johnson, and ultimately with Amazing Grace Spaces, began in the winter of 2012/13 when I volunteered at the Newport Night Shelter. It was there, among volunteers serving the most vulnerable with humility and love, that I witnessed what I can only describe as Jesus in action. This experience transformed my life; I accepted Jesus into my heart and was baptised in June 2013.

Over time, I took on more responsibility and eventually became Assistant Night Shelter Co‑ordinator, serving faithfully until the Night shelter project closed in 2020 due to Covid. From there, I moved into a new chapter at Hope Centre Ministries, supporting women on their journey to freedom from addiction—work I continued until December 2025.

In every role I have held, one constant has remained: a deep conviction that every person deserves safety, dignity, hope, and the opportunity to rebuild. This is why, when the opportunity arose in September 2025 to become a Trustee for Amazing Grace Spaces, I felt called to step into it.

Amazing Grace Spaces embodies everything I believe in—creating safe spaces, offering compassionate support, and walking with individuals as they rebuild their lives from the inside out. My experiences in homelessness services, rehabilitation support, justice work, and community outreach have shaped not just my professional path, but my heart. Serving as a trustee allows me to give back to a project that aligns with my values, my faith, and my belief that no one should face crisis alone.

Being part of Amazing Grace Spaces is a privilege, and I am committed to supporting its mission to provide safety, recovery, and dignity to those who need it most.