WHO ARE WE?

Selby Hands of Hope (SHOH) is a grassroots charity, run by local people for local people. It was founded in 2009 by Wendy Singh, after her own life was turned upside down by illness in 2007. While in hospital, and in the months after, Wendy saw first-hand the need for instant help in the local area. People didn’t have time to wait for national charities to process applications — they needed support straight away.

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Wendy had already spent years organising annual fundraisers for big national charities, and she deeply respected the vital role they play. But she also knew Selby needed something local, fast, and flexible. That’s why she created Selby Hands of Hope: to offer immediate, practical help to families, groups, and individuals when they need it most.

When Wendy sadly passed away in 2016, the charity carried on with the same vision. Ann Rhodes stepped in as Charity Coordinator, managing the day-to-day running of the organisation, while Richard Singh became Chairman, overseeing all of the fundraising. Together, with a loyal and determined team of staff and volunteers, they ensured Wendy’s legacy not only continued but grew stronger.

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Today, that vision lives on. Much of SHOH’s work comes via referrals from schools, social services and other agencies, often involving sensitive and private matters. Sometimes the help is as small as providing a bed, a cooker, or warm clothing from the shop. Other times it’s a grant of money or targeted support for families in crisis. And sometimes, it’s simply a kind word of advice and pointing people in the right direction — making sure no one feels they have to struggle alone.

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Through its charity shops, fundraisers, and community appeals, SHOH turns local generosity into direct action. The Christmas Toy & Gift Appeal is one example — making sure hundreds of children wake up to a present on Christmas morning.

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Alongside this, SHOH provides volunteering and training opportunities, giving people confidence, skills, and a pathway back into work. In the past we’ve done this successfully, and we are always open to doing it again in the future — continuing to invest in people as well as meeting immediate needs.

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In short: Selby Hands of Hope is Wendy’s legacy — carried forward by Ann Rhodes, Richard Singh, and a dedicated team of staff and volunteers — a charity that offers fast, practical, and local help, from small acts of kindness to life-changing support.

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