About Us

A group of churches and volunteers in the London Borough of Bexley come together each winter from January to March to provide overnight accommodation, hot meals, help and support to those who – often through no fault of their own – find themselves sleeping rough in the Borough .

Started in 2016, Bexley Winter Shelter is a registered charity. It initially operated nightly from seven venues in the Borough, opening their doors and providing refreshments and a hot evening meal. These days, usually in central Bexleyheath, an evening meal is cooked by our volunteers at one of our partner churches and at a separate, nearby venue, a room and bed in a safe, warm and secure environment is arranged. Breakfast is also supplied for our guests.

The shelter is run by one part-time, paid employee and a band of volunteers. Finances are accumulated through grants and generous gifts from individuals, churches and other organisations. A group of Trustees regularly meets and oversees the running of the shelter.

Bexley Winter Shelter also works alongside Housing Justice, a national organisation which has provided practical and financial support. The charity has a comprehensive range of policies covering all aspects of running such a project and engaging with volunteers and guests, as well as the appropriate insurance cover.