A COUPLE from Salisbury who opened their hearts to a homeless man 35 years ago are being formally recognised as founders of the charity that grew from that act of kindness.

Homelessness charity ALABARÉ has announced that Reverend John Proctor OBE and his wife, Alicia, will be given the official title of Founders as the organisation approaches its 35th anniversary this year.

The milestone marks more than three decades since the Proctors befriended a homeless man in Salisbury named Bob, inviting him to live with their family while he recovered from addiction, rebuilt his confidence and regained independence.

After realising more people across South Wiltshire needed help, the couple established ALABARÉ in 1991 with support from the city’s Christian community.

What began with a handful of bed spaces in Salisbury has since grown into a major regional charity operating across the South West and into North and South Wales.

Today, ALABARÉ supports more than 3,200 people each year who are at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness, providing housing and specialist support.

The Proctors have remained closely involved throughout the charity’s development.

John served as chairman of the Board of Trustees until 2019 before becoming Honorary President.

In 2016, he was awarded an OBE for services to the homeless at Buckingham Palace.

Reverend John Proctor receives his OBE with wife Alicia.

Alicia has served on the Board of Trustees on three separate occasions, most recently until July 2025.

Although the couple will not hold governance responsibilities – with strategic direction remaining with the Board of Trustees – they will continue as advisors and ambassadors.

Chair of trustees Sir Andrew Gregory said: “We’re delighted to be honouring the incredible contribution of John and Alicia Proctor in ALABARÉ’s founding story and are pleased to have their ongoing support as we continue our efforts to help people at risk of and who face homelessness.

“The enduring commitment of the Proctors over more than three decades inspires our work and the communities we serve, and as we mark the 35th year of ALABARÉ, it seems right and proper to officially recognise their legacy in creating the bespoke, person-centred and trauma-informed support our colleagues deliver day in, day out.”

Alicia added: “John and I are very proud of the journey that ALABARÉ has been on over the last 35 years, and we feel privileged to have been a part of it from the very beginning.

“We’re grateful to the current Board of Trustees for announcing the Founders title, and we’ll continue to support the charity in any way we can.”