New Sheringham Salvation Army Leader Returns to Familiar Territory

Major Michelle Woodhouse, newly appointed leader of The Salvation Army in Sheringham, has returned to a place familiar from her early ministry days. Originally from near Fakenham, Michelle has served in various roles across the UK, including work with homeless families in Belfast and support for homeless women in Liverpool. Her new role brings her back to Sheringham, where she previously contributed to the town’s ecumenical holiday club.

Michelle emphasized the importance of building relationships as the foundation of her work. “It’s the first time I’ve arrived at an appointment already knowing people – and even knowing where the shops are!” she said. She expressed confidence that her existing connections in the town would help her quickly become known and establish a strong presence.

Her ministry began in Belfast, where she worked at a family centre supporting homeless families and ran a parenting programme. She later spent ten years working with homeless women in Liverpool before helping to establish a church on a deprived estate. That work started with football sessions on a floodlit caged pitch, which eventually led to youth activities and parent-and-toddler groups, followed by worship services.

Michelle later moved to Norwich, where she spent eight years as The Salvation Army’s Divisional Children’s Officer in East Anglia. She then led churches in Wellingborough and Boston before taking up her current role in Sheringham. Her experience in diverse communities has prepared her for the challenges and opportunities of leading The Salvation Army’s work in the town.

The Salvation Army already has a strong presence in Sheringham, offering practical support alongside Christian worship and activities. Local residents can volunteer through the food bank, Food Connect, the drop-in centre, and the charity shop. Michelle hopes to engage more people with the church, encouraging those who may not have previously interacted with The Salvation Army to get to know her and the community.

She said: “I’m all for building relationships first. It’s very often through the relationships that are made that people will then respond. Come and try.” Michelle’s approach reflects a commitment to connection and service, aligning with the biblical call to care for the vulnerable and build community. Micah 6:8 reminds us that justice, mercy, and humble service are central to living out faith.

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