London Night Shelter Service – A reflection
February 9, 2020
More people slept rough in London last year than in any previous year on record. The 18% year-on-year rise in 2018-19 was called a “national disgrace” by the mayor of London, who blamed the crisis on welfare reforms and a lack of investment in social housing. On a single night last November 1,283 people were counted sleeping rough in London. Thankfully, on the same night, night shelters across London were able to provide some respite for over 500 people. These guests enjoyed a sit-down meal with others and were given a warm, safe place to sleep.
The night shelters in London and across the UK provide a crucial lifeline to some 8,000 people each year. In February 2020, the London Night Shelter Service of Thanksgiving presented an opportunity to offer thanks to the night shelters in London, who have been working hard to cope with a significant increase in demand for their services.
Some 300 people attended the service at the prestigious St Paul’s Cathedral, which saw touching first-hand accounts from the shelters and an honest reflection from Rt Rev Rob Wickham, Bishop of Edmonton and Chair of Housing Justice. Together we gave thanks for the invaluable work of London’s Night Shelters and for the dedicated supporters who keep them running. We prayed for God’s blessing upon those who seek refuge in the Night Shelters, upon those who have no home and upon all who offer their care and their welcome.
Housing Justice would particularly like to thank Eddie McCormick for sharing his first-hand experience as a night shelter guest, as well as Rt. Hon Stephen Timms MP, St Paul’s Cathedral and the many other people who were responsible for ensuring that the service ran smoothly and was both moving and insightful.
