Recently, I had the surreal honour of representing Safe Families volunteers at the Easter Reception at Number 10 Downing Street. At the security gates, seeing my name on the guest list felt almost unbelievable. It reminded me of the power of being known by name. That thought ‘What if I prayed by name for the people who walk through that door every day?’ stayed with me.

Walking through that iconic black door, I felt a mix of excitement, nerves and a sense that this moment mattered. Inside, the atmosphere was warm but formal. A school choir performed beautifully, and the Prime Minister delivered a speech about how hope can overcome darkness. As I stood in the corner near the 2012 Olympic medals (the closest I’ll ever get to gold!), nibbling hot cross buns and drinking tea, I found myself quietly praying.

The room was full of MPs, Lords, advisors, and leaders of Christian charities. I met Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Faith Minister Lord Khan, and MP Emma Newell-Buck. I also had the opportunity to chat with Eli Gardner of Kids Matter and Joe Lowther of KICK. Each introduction became a simple silent prayer. I was reminded of 1 Timothy 2:1-2: “I urge... that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority.”

It hit me afresh how much we need people at the grassroots and people in policy rooms. The work we do as volunteers, showing up and supporting families, is vital. And so is advocacy, with people like Tarn Bright (our CEO) serving as a trusted voice in places like Number 10.

I’ve been volunteering with Safe Families for three years now, befriending families and serving as a church champion at Destiny Church Tees Valley. With support from the Safe Families Teesside team, we’ve connected with 97 families. Again and again, we’ve seen that showing up, even for an hour or two, can plant seeds of hope.

I’ll remember walking up Roseberry Topping hill with a 14-year-old girl who’d faced more loss than most adults - both parents died to addiction, a brother is in prison and living with a grieving grandparent struggling to cope. This girl was chatty and open, full of insight and humour. On the way down, we discussed the hills and valleys of life and how friends help us through difficult times. I shared how Jesus is a friend who never leaves us and she accepted an invitation to come to our youth group. That simple walk and conversation was a seed of hope.

So whether I’m walking the halls of Number 10 or walking beside a teenager on a muddy trail, I want to remember the importance of carrying their names in prayer. Sometimes, love looks like showing up and quietly whispering someone’s name before God.