70 volunteers needed for a January night shelter to help tackle homelessness
The winter shelter aims to support people off the streets with warm meals and housing plans
A winter night shelter is set to open in January, but organisers are appealing for 70 more volunteers to sign up to help run the service.
The shelter, which is run by Wycombe Homeless Connection aims to offer temporary respite for people facing homelessness during the cold months, has already attracted 280 volunteers. However, James Boultbee, a volunteer for the shelter, said dozens more are still needed to meet the target of 350 by Christmas.
Those who sign up can choose shifts that suit their schedules. Options include evening, overnight, and breakfast shifts, meaning there are roles to accommodate varying preferences and availability. The overnight shift, which allows for a period of sleep while duties are shared between teams, is particularly in demand.
What the shelter offers
Speaking about the service, James explained the purpose of the shelter goes beyond providing warmth and meals.
Every person who stays overnight is paired with a support worker to explore permanent housing options, ranging from private rentals to social housing and supported accommodation. Some may also apply for temporary accommodation through the council.
Last year, the shelter’s efforts were a major success. By the end of March, only two people remained in the shelter, and according to staff, everyone housed last year has stayed off the streets and still has stable accommodation.
Why volunteering matters
James emphasised the human impact of this initiative, recalling the positive morale boost it gave to the shelter’s guests last year. For some, the warmth, clean clothes, hot meals, and friendly interaction made them feel human again after spending freezing nights outside.
He described the surprise on the faces of those who came in last winter, particularly when offered a home-cooked meal accompanied by dessert and even seconds.
‘They’re probably not expecting to be looked after so kindly,’ James said. ‘That is purely a compliment to the volunteers who come and make a very, very warm welcome.’
People wanting to volunteer at the night shelter can sign up on the shelter’s website. Volunteers are encouraged to act quickly, as the final recruitment deadline is Christmas.