Tue, 27 Jan 2026

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 Winter shelter sees highest demand in years

Northampton Hope Centre staff say people who need the shelter could be turned away by next week.

* Northampton Hope Centre's winter night shelter has moved to a bigger venue, The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which can accommodate 45 beds.
* Despite this expansion, the charity expects up to 75 people per day to seek help, forcing them to turn some away due to capacity constraints.
* The charity is struggling to cope with demand due to the cost of living crisis, unaffordable housing, and increased pressures on mental health.
* The night shelter's guests can also use the charity's day centre at Oasis House for hot meals, showers, and support.
* Damian Hadlow, a 25-year-old guest of the night shelter, credits the charity with keeping him off the streets and helping him improve his mental health.
* According to the charity, more women (up 15% year-on-year) and younger people are seeking help, and social pressures such as drug use and family conflicts are contributing to this trend.
* The charity's aim is to help guests move into permanent housing by the end of the winter period.
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