Did you know Acton Homeless Concern has been providing a lifeline for people facing homelessness, poverty, and isolation for more than 35 years?
The charity runs 2 drop-in centres in the town, and offers practical support, advice, and a welcoming space for hundreds of people in need of help every week.
Based at Emmaus House in Berrymead Gardens, and the Damien Centre in Church Road, it provides free services ranging from hot meals and clothing to housing advice and health support.
Over the course of a year, the charity provides tens of thousands of hot lunches, breakfasts and refreshments, alongside other services.
It works closely with other organisations to give homeless people access to specialist support. These include Ealing Council’s rough sleeping prevention team, Recovery Intervention Services Ealing (RISE), and homelessness charity St Mungo’s.
’It makes me feel good’
The charity’s work relies on a combination of dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters who give their time and resources to help others.
Stefan, 25, started volunteering for 2 days a week with the charity earlier this year after becoming unemployed.
He said: “I thought ‘I’ve got time on my hands’ and thought it would make sense to do something to give back to people that needed help. I was really impressed by just how kind and welcoming the team were when I joined.
“I volunteer because I have the time to offer help to others. I like having the opportunity to offer companionship to others, whether that’s in the form of giving them a hot meal, a cup of tea, or just having a chat. And, it makes me feel good that I’ve done something productive with my day.”
’Extremely important’
Acton Homeless Concern supports people from all walks of life. Some are homeless, while others are struggling with financial hardship, loneliness or other difficult life circumstances.
This can typically include refugees, or people leaving care, prison or the armed forces, and also those affected by relationship breakdown, ill health, or rising housing costs.
Colin found it hard to adjust to everyday life after he came out of the military. He was homeless for a number of years, and it took him time to get back on his feet. Acton Homeless Concern has been a huge help in getting him there.
He said: “The staff are very knowledgeable and helpful. If you’ve got any problems, they’ll make a phone call, go on the computer, and help with things like benefits. It’s an extremely important service and offers me a daily routine. Rose is a master chef too.”
Ian Breen is the centre service manager and has been working for Acton Homeless Concern for 18 years. He said: “One of the nicest things about working here is seeing people 5 years down the line and realising how far they have come. We see a lot of positive outcomes from people who use our services. They go on to have homes, children, they look really well – it’s very satisfying to see.”
How can you help?
You can show your support to the charity by making a donation, which includes time to volunteer as well as financial contributions or donating items such as toiletries, food, and mobile phones.
Have your say on homelessness plan
The council is asking residents to have their say on its new draft homelessness and rough sleeping strategy. The 5-year plan sets out how the council wants to prevent homelessness, reduce rough sleeping, improve support for people living in temporary accommodation, and help more people find a safe, secure, and affordable home. Find out more about the plans and take part in the consultation.
Winter hub for rough sleepers opens
Ealing Council is set to open a winter hub for rough sleepers, helping protect this vulnerable group of people during periods of severe weather.
A cold snap is expected towards the end of November, which would trigger the severe weather emergency protocol (SWEP). This is an emergency response used by councils to ensure people who would otherwise sleep rough are provided with a safe, warm place to stay while temperatures remain low, regardless of their usual eligibility for help with housing or their immigration status.
The winter hub will be run in partnership with St Mungo’s and local voluntary sector organisations, providing overnight shelter, food, warmth, and welfare support.
Councillor Louise Brett is the council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for safe and genuinely affordable homes. She said: “Feedback from previous years has highlighted the real difference the warm, safe environment of the rest centre can make. People using the service have expressed appreciation for the care and compassion shown by staff and volunteers throughout their stay.
“But the centre is more than just a place to stay. As well as offering immediate protection from the elements, it provides an opportunity for people experiencing rough sleeping to get longer-term support and a pathway to a life off the streets.”
