Faith groups combat homelessness

CHURCH VOLUNTEERS and premises are playing a key part in tackling the problem of homelessness in London, according to a new report, which reveals that almost 450 religious buildings are being used as night shelters, with 1,577 people being helped over the last year, writes Joanna Moorhead.

The Night Shelter Impact report 2013-14, released by the Christian group Housing Justice, brings together more comprehensive data than previously available on the contribution made by churches and religious organisations to helping homeless people in the capital. Housing Justice’s chief executive Alison Gelder said churches were increasingly keen to help give homeless people somewhere to sleep, especially as the winter closes in.

 “I think what’s behind it is that more and more homeless people are knocking on church doors,” Ms Gelder said.

Data on 1,094 guests in the Housing Justice network of night shelters found just over half were aged between 26 and 49. Half came from the United Kingdom while 27 per cent were from the 30 countries of the European Economic Area.