The Watford Winter Shelter, funded by the council and run by homelessness charity New Hope, has closed for the warmer months after four months supporting some of the town’s most vulnerable people...
The shelter provides emergency overnight accommodation for people experiencing homelessness during the coldest months of the year. Guests receive a hot evening meal, a warm bed and access to support services designed to help them move toward more stable housing and improved wellbeing.
For many, the shelter offers more than simple sustenance and succour. One service user described the shelter as being transformative: “It was wonderful, being surrounded by nice people, who gave me advice, made me feel welcome and were always ready to listen to what I wanted to say. It was a very positive experience for me.”
He is still enjoying the hospitality of New Hope having been offered an Outreach bed at the Sanctuary.
The shelter’s success has been driven by a combination of public funding, corporate donations and the dedication of volunteers.
Volunteer Annette Reeve said: “The value of the shelter is felt on so many levels. Not only do we provide a hot meal and a warm bed, but by getting to know the stories of those who use the service, New Hope is able to help many begin their journey toward recovery and stability.”
For Watford, the Winter Night Shelter stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when a community works together.
During the past four months 56 different people slept at the shelter with 71% of people moving on to longer-term alternative accommodation. A total of 854 nights of accommodation was provided.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “The Watford Winter Shelter shows the very best of our community, providing warmth, safety and vital support to those who need it most during the coldest months.
I’d like to thank New Hope and all the dedicated volunteers whose compassion and commitment have made such a difference. With 71% moving on to longer-term housing, it’s showing this isn’t just short-term support but a pathway to longer-term stability.
“While the shelter now closes for the warmer months, it’s important to remember that support continues all year round through New Hope Haven, ensuring that those facing homelessness in Watford can always access the help they need. YMCA also does fantastic work locally, supporting people to break the cycle of homelessness and move towards living more independently.”
