The Bishop of Southampton, the Rt Revd Rhiannon King witnessed first-hand the incredible work of the Winter Beds Project which provides safety, warmth and support for those experiencing homelessness during the coldest weeks of the year. She chatted to guests and volunteers at the project, which is a joint initiative between churches in the city, community groups and charitable organisations.
She said, “I think this is where God is and where Jesus would have been if he was visiting Southampton tonight. The Winter Beds Project embodies the spirit of compassion, generosity and hope that is so vital in our communities, particularly in the harsh conditions of winter. In these difficult times, it is more important than ever that we come together to support those who are struggling. Every person who steps through the door should feel welcomed, safe and valued. The work being done here not only provides practical support but also reflects the selfless care of others at the heart of our faith.”
The Winter Beds Project follows a recent memorial service for 32 people who died while homeless in Southampton in the past year.
It was first established in 2020, offering a temporary shelter, warm bed and hot dinner to those in need during the winter months.
Walati Roath first envisaged the scheme. He commented, “It’s important to have this project because the Lord always said, go and out to support people and the Lord has led this project, not me. He gave me the people, the resources to set this up and the Lord guides me and gives me the wisdom to tackle anything. We are just opening these doors to give people that freedom back again, giving food for their bellies and sharing the love of Christ with them.”
Bishop Rhiannon shared a meal during her visit and chatted to guests and volunteers, hearing about their work and their vision for the future.
The project provides 7 beds each night. Rough sleepers are referred to the shelter by the Two Saints Day Centre in Southampton.
Among the guests is Matthew who has come each evening since it opened earlier this month. He said, “For me it’s about warmth really and the staff and cooks are great. If I wasn’t here, I’d be on a boat by Northam Bridge but there’s no engine and it’s cold and damp. I have COPD and suffer in the cold weather so coming here is great and my chest is clearing. I’ll be here each night.”
Paul Woodman, City Life Church Leader added, “We’ve seen people come in frozen to the bones. Sometimes they don’t feel very safe outside and are worried about being assaulted or verbally attacked, so to come into a place where they know they’re not going to be bullied or picked on by anyone is really good. There are people who are really hungry and perhaps haven’t eaten for a day or two. Sometimes they can beg food and sometimes they get food and sometimes they don’t. Here they’ve got consistent good food and there are snacks that they can eat through the night and breakfast in the morning. So, we’re providing the basics of food, warmth and shelter. I think they also find this a place of community and safety as well. We believe that no one should have to face the cold alone and our churches are committed to doing everything we can to help those on the streets during this difficult time.”
There’s a team of around 60 volunteers drawn from churches of all denominations, from across the city and as far as Romsey, as well as students from the University. They work in three shifts – morning, day and overnight.
Bishop Rhiannon praised the work of the volunteers, “The Winter Beds project is a crucial lifeline for many, but we must all work together to address the root causes of homelessness and ensure that everyone has a safe and permanent place to call home.”
Working with other agencies, the volunteers can also offer support to their guests in finding more permanent accommodation. Along with the University, the churches are currently investigating the possibility of expanding the Winter Beds Project and opening a permanent shelter all year round.
