As temperatures drop with the onset of colder weather, temporary shelter will be provided for people sleeping rough in Watford via the town’s Winter Shelter...
This has been made possible thanks to funding from Watford Borough Council and support from homelessness charity partner, New Hope. Every night from 17 November 2025 to 15 March 2026 (regardless of temperature) at the shelter, New Hope’s team of staff and volunteers will be providing hot meals and beds within the Haven on Whippendell Road.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “No one should have to face sleeping rough, especially during the coldest months of the year. By working closely with New Hope, we’re making sure that people in Watford have access to warmth, safety and the support they need to move forward. The Winter Shelter is a lifeline for many, and it shows what we can achieve when local organisations and the council come together to care for our community.”
Councillor Jennifer Pattinson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Wellbeing, said: “The Winter Shelter offers so much more than a bed for the night, it provides comfort, connection, and a sense of belonging for people who may be going through very difficult times.
“By working alongside New Hope, we’re making sure that everyone in Watford has access to warmth, safety, and the support they need. Every person deserves dignity and care, especially during the winter months, and that’s exactly what this partnership delivers.”
Deputy CEO and Head of Services at New Hope, Rob Edmonds, said: “The Watford Winter Shelter is an essential service throughout the coldest, wettest months of the year. Working together with Watford Borough Council and other partners gives people a clear route into accommodation and helps us strive to ensure that no one has to sleep rough in our town. We are so grateful for the support of our volunteers who help run the shelter.”
If you do see someone sleeping rough, please call New Hope’s 24/7 helpline 0300 012 0168 or report their position to Streetlink at thestreetlink.org.uk. You can also find out more at www.newhope.org.uk/wintershelter.
