Homelessness is always an important topic in the UK, whether it is local or national. With winter approaching, we wanted to do something to help those who will be battling the elements on the streets.

The Winter Night Shelter MK

The WNSMK was founded in 2010. During this year, the winter was very harsh and the Milton Keynes Council became aware of people sleeping in bin stores and tents around the Central Milton Keynes area – despite the freezing conditions and thick blanket of snow on the ground. At the time, the YMCA was the only resource for those who were homeless. However, they were completely full, with no spare beds for the rough sleepers. A new solution was needed – and so, Winter Night Shelter MK was created.

The Winter Night Shelter MK support the homeless, vulnerable and those with mental health struggles in Milton Keynes by providing various services.

Services Provided

Between the months of November and March, WNSMK provides temporary emergency accommodation to keep people off the street during the coldest months of the year.

In terms of year-round support, they have a dedicated welfare team. The welfare team can help with a vast range of issues. For example, they can provide administrative help to access benefits, entitlements and ID. This helps to tide individuals over until they can find a more permanent solution. In order to help them access solutions, the welfare team also finds longer-term accommodation and pathways to employment. This does wonders in helping people get back on their feet.

They also provide practical support such as giving access to showers and washing/drying facilities. Donations of food, clothing, sleeping bags and other provisions are compiled and handed out.

Some individuals are in need of medical or mental health support. WNSMK provide referrals and links to professional services. This can include medical/dental care, counsellors and support groups.

WNSMK also run a social Community Club to combat loneliness and social isolation.

The Winter Night Shelter is staffed by local volunteers, who assess the needs of individuals and create personal support packages to help them get back on track. They partner with local authorities, churches, and other sectors to provide the services required to those in need.

What We Achieved

After seeing an appeal from The Winter Night Shelter for donations, we got in touch. We donated 20 waterproof sleeping bags, which will be passed on to those most in need.

We look forward to supporting this local charity over the coming years.

For more of our work with charities and other organisations, see our Roman Rangers Sponsorship and our work with Al-Fikr.