Here at The Passage, we work tirelessly to ensure that people do not have to face the most challenging period of their lives alone. We strive to support everyone who walks through our doors, particularly as the cold and wet weather approaches.
Not only do we provide a safe, warm place to visit during the daytime, but we also encourage our Service Users to meet with our Resettlement Team. Their main objective is to understand each individual’s needs in order to organise a bespoke package of support, with the aim of ending their homelessness for good.
We asked our Jenny, to help us understand why the importance of this work increases during winter.
What is the impact on people rough sleeping in winter?
Severe weather is life-threatening, and we often face challenges when we try and develop trust with people to encourage them to come inside. It takes the skill and patience of The Passage staff, who are working flat out during this period.
Imagine that you are sleeping outside in the West End during the festive season, with people rushing past, wrapped up in their own lives and stopping less to say hello to someone who is on the streets.
This can have a really isolating impact and make you feel lonelier than ever.
Dark winter evenings mean that people face a very long, cold night on their own if they are sleeping outside. But as soon as the doors of The Passage’s Resource Centre are open, our staff are there to give individuals a warm welcome and a plan to help them away from a life on the streets.
“Our incredible staff at the Resource Centre give care no matter what the issues are. Our job is to make people feel valued.“
Jenny Travassos – Director of Services
When the temperature drops what plans does The Passage have in place?
As well as opening during the day, our Resource Centre serves as a temporary emergency night shelter when the temperature drops past zero on three consecutive nights. This usually happens between January and March, when the weather is bitterly cold at night. The Passage operates on the ‘In for good’ principle, meaning we view this as an important opportunity to speak with those using the emergency shelter, so they do not have to return to life on the street.
Help people to stay warm and dry this winter
At our Resource Centre, we run a clothing store providing people with the essential everyday items they need to look and feel good. During the winter months, this service becomes even more vital, as temperatures drop and the wet weather worsens.
If you can, please consider donating your unwanted items of winter clothing (must be in good condition).
- Coats (winter and waterproof)
- Tracksuit bottoms and warm trousers
- Jumpers and hoodies
- Boots, trainers and shoes
- Hats, gloves and scarves