Diarmuid Gavin said:

"I am delighted and privileged to be here to help open this garden designed by Paul Cooper, a world class garden innovator whose work I have admired for over 10 years. It is a real privilege. Also the homeless cause is something close to my heart as many Irish people in the past have experienced homelessness and substance misuse in the Cricklewood area."

Sarah Teather MP said:

"Haines House offers a safe and now beautiful environment for young men to begin the journey of healing towards recovery from drug and alcohol problems. As the local MP I know just how vital this work is and I am delighted to have been able to offer my support to this local project."

Tom Biddlecombe, CRASH Director: "CRASH believes everyone deserves a decent surrounding to live in and that should include individuals who have experienced homelessness. Thanks to the generosity of the construction industry, we are delighted to be able to help create a beautiful garden for these individuals and help, not just build their lives, but their self worth knowing people care about them in that way."

Tom Biddlecombe, Director of CRASH, presents the cheque to Danny Maher, Director of Cricklewood Homeless Concern

John Doocey, Haines House Manager, concluded:

"We are constantly reminded of how drugs destroy lives and so often lead to death, and indeed it is true that the fabric of society is profoundly affected by problems of substance abuse. But we seldom hear of how people courageously face their addiction and regain their dignity and their lives. At Haines House, young men accept the opportunity to examine the dangers of substance abuse and explore the opportunities that recovery can offer. CRASH has enhanced that opportunity by providing a social and leisure space where clients can socialise and engage in healthy leisure activities in a safe alcohol and drug free space."

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