Barking opens first permanent showers for homeless

The facility aims to improve hygiene and ultimately health outcomes

A purpose-built facility offering free hot showers and clean underwear for people experiencing homelessness has opened in east London.

ShowerBox Barking, believed to be the first of its kind in the UK, aims to reduce health inequalities and support personal hygiene by providing access to washing facilities.

The space, backed by Barking and Dagenham Council and charities, can also be used as a "place of respite" and clients also have access to on-site refreshment.

Mick Mednick, from Barking Churches Unite, said the project is about returning "value, respect, trust and confidence" to people undergoing hardship, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said.

According to the Office of National Statistics, the average age of death for rough sleepers is 43 for men and 45 for women.

Poor sanitation can make people more at risk of infectious disease and can lower life expectancy.

Mr Mednick pointed out "the homeless" were not just rough sleepers, but also included "sofa surfers".

He said: "When you have spaces like this, where people can come in and feel accepted, they're not looked down at, they can receive a smile, and they're not patronised.

"It's a big thing for them to step through this door, it's not a little thing."

Mick Mednick says the facility can also offer respite for people in need

The idea for the permanent facility came about after a number of pop-up events at Barking Learning Centre, where guests could see a doctor without an appointment and could also get haircuts, showers, clothes and food.

According to the council, most people who were surveyed at the events said they attended for free food and showers, as well as to see a doctor.

ShowerBox Barking is currently open on Fridays but Maureen Worby, the council's cabinet member for adult social care, said she hoped to recruit volunteers to have a women-only day.