Restore Collective: 10 Years of Building Community and Restoring Hope

Craig and Rachel Bird founded the Restore Collective in 2015, a registered charity based in Atherstone, North Warwickshire. From the start, Restore has been driven by a simple vision: to help people thrive.

At the heart of their work is a commitment to connection, belonging, and community. At the end of last year, they celebrated their 10th anniversary—a milestone reflecting a decade of faithful presence and impact. We had the pleasure of hosting Craig and Rachel in our home in January, gaining insight into their heart and work.

Their vision is grounded in a powerful theological conviction:

"One of the misfortunes in the long history of the church is that we have mistakenly separated love of God from love of neighbour… The gospel invitation is that people intervene in this to correct those mistaken arrangements."

 — Walter Brueggemann

Craig and Rachel, alongside a growing and dedicated team, care deeply for those who are vulnerable or marginalised. Their work centres on welcoming people into genuine friendship, valuing each person’s unique contribution, and walking alongside them on a journey toward flourishing—something they believe flows from a personal connection with Christ.

Over the years, Restore Collective has grown organically in response to local needs. Their work is both wide-ranging and intentionally relational. Family events and youth clubs provide safe, joyful spaces for children and young people. Wellbeing groups offer encouragement and support for adults. Practical initiatives such as money management courses and pastoral care—both one-to-one and for families—offer tangible help during challenging times.

Community-building is woven into everything they do. From football groups and seaside trips to residential weekends, carol singing, litter picks, informal church gatherings, and local projects, each activity is designed to strengthen relationships and nurture hope.

What has emerged is more than a programme of activities—it is a small but committed community. Around eight or nine Christians now call Restore their church. Together, they are exploring what this expression of church can look like—a “new wineskin” for the “new wine” of the people and opportunities before them. Rather than replicating traditional models, they are learning to listen carefully: to God, to one another, and to their wider community.

There is much to be hopeful for, though the journey is not without its challenges. Craig and Rachel often speak of trusting “the slow work of God,” recognising that genuine and sincere transformation takes time, patience, faithful presence and consistent effort.

They believe that deep change cannot be rushed, whether in individuals, families, or communities. Yet they also hold firmly to the conviction that God goes before them, inviting them to join in with His mission already at work in Atherstone.

Their teaching is simple and centred on the life and example of Jesus—modelled through compassion, integrity, and sacrificial love rather than complex systems or programmes.

Restore has developed a sustainable financial model. Two youth workers are funded by Warwickshire County Council, and a Family Support Worker is supported by a local primary school. The Director’s role is funded through income from a rental property owned by the charity.

And now, a new chapter is beginning - right in the centre of Atherstone.

They are in the process of acquiring a town-centre community space just off the high street on a long-term peppercorn rent. With their first £20,000 grant already secured to begin renovations, this new centre represents both a significant opportunity and a meaningful responsibility.

It will serve as a visible sign of hope—a place dedicated to deepening their commitment to helping people thrive.

In June, a team of incredible supporters will be taking on the challenge of climbing Snowdon to raise funds for the new community centre. Their goal is to raise £5,000 to help furnish and equip the space—turning it into a thriving hub for restoration in the community.

If you would consider sponsoring them - here’s the link Restore Fundraising Challenge

Restore is a brilliant reminder that transformation rarely comes quickly or loudly, yet its impact, formed through presence, relationship, and hope, truly restores and reshapes lives and communities.