Night shelter a 'lifeline' to the community

Major Ralph Walker (centre) with his team of volunteers at the Eastbourne night shelter

Eastbourne Borough Council has thanked the Salvation Army, saying its night shelter is a "lifeline for rough sleepers on bitterly cold nights".

Since the charity launched its SWEP Night Shelter last November at its citadel in Langney Road, it has helped 47 rough sleepers from Eastbourne, Brighton, Lewes, Hastings and even as far as Luton.

Major Ralph Walker, who volunteers at the shelter, said: "Our work goes far beyond simply providing a warm place to sleep.

"We offer amenities such as showers and laundry. We provide hot meals and breakfast and help clients fill out housing benefits forms."

The night shelter also provides assistance in housing benefits, employment assistance and medical services.

Major Walker added that every Friday there is a doctor, dentist and employment assistance staff on site.

He said 11 volunteers help out at the shelter and since November, the shelter has been opened for 42 nights whenever temperatures "feel like" zero degrees or below.

"The shelter is also a place for people to build close friendships. The people we help are struggling financially and are going through mental health issues," he added.

"It's heart-breaking, but just by sitting down and listening it makes a huge difference for them."

Councillor Peter Diplock, cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said: "We are incredibly grateful for the Salvation Army's outstanding work in providing a lifeline for rough sleepers on bitterly cold nights.

"Their efforts have gone above and beyond our expectations.

"They have not only provided a safe haven for those experiencing homelessness but have also offered invaluable support in partnership with other organisations to help individuals access accommodation, mental health services, and other essential resources."