A BELOVED charity which has been helping Taunton’s homeless population for more than 40 years is changing its image.

Taunton Association for the Homeless (TAH) will now be trading under a new name – Arc.

TAH was set up in 1976 and has expanded and grown vastly in its 42 years, including geographically, in properties, the types of support offered and approach.

The charity, now based at The Crescent, has 15 properties in Taunton and Bridgwater. It supports around 200 people on any given night. Services are also run in West Somerset.

Somerset County Gazette:

The new Arc logo. 

The charities CEO, Justin Roxburgh, who joined in 2013, said: “Following a restructure in 2017 and the continuous growth in services, TAH felt it was only natural that its brand grew with it, representing the new approach, services and geographical locations we now offer.

“With 42 years as Taunton Association for the Homeless, much thought, consideration and research went into a rebrand. We were very lucky to have the support of experienced marketing consultant, Jo Hake, who joined us as a volunteer to help us through this process.

“Taunton-based Quantock Design has also been by our side, offering its expertise and transforming our old, unrepresentative brand into a fresh, new, exciting name and logo.

“We are therefore excited to announce that TAH will now be trading as Arc. Our aim is still to prevent and end rough sleeping but to also inspire lives and help clients through their journey to a better future.”

As well as offering one-to-one support, the charity now offers further support for the future through its accredited college and its own letting agency, Somerset West Letting Agency.

The charity believed these initiatives assist clients to look forward to brighter futures, gain self-confidence, qualifications and enter private accommodation.

The name may have changed, but the fundraising has not. Arc will still be hosting its annual Big Sleepout event in order to raise funds for its work. The event takes place on Friday, June 8, at Taunton Town Football Club.

Mr Roxburgh added: “We are thrilled to be sharing this news with our supportive community, and hope you will follow our ongoing journey as Arc, striving to do more to help the homeless.

“As always, we could not provide our services without the generous support we receive from members of the public and local corporates. We hope you can join us to raise valuable funds and awareness for the homeless.”

The charity's new website is currently underconstruction but will be ready to go soon. visit arcinspire.co.uk.