On Tuesday, 25 February, North Chingford Methodist Church hosted a meeting to discuss a significant new initiative. The Forest Churches Emergency Night Shelters (FCENS) are campaigning to establish a base and emergency accommodation in the rear part of the church building.

The project aims to utilize the back of the church for offices, a drop-in centre, and emergency accommodation, while the front of the church will remain dedicated to worship and community activities. FCENS emphasizes that their services are not for individuals dealing with alcoholism or drug addiction. Instead, they focus on temporarily homeless individuals who require assistance to regain stability and secure permanent housing.

The Methodist Church, which owns the listed building, is committed to ensuring it serves community purposes. Given the current lack of provision for homeless individuals in Chingford, this initiative represents an opportunity to address an urgent need. FCENS plans to collaborate with the local community and has already secured support from various local churches.

FCENS provides a comprehensive support system for single adults without shelter. This includes resolving tenancy agreements, assisting with homeless applications to the Council, and referring clients to other appropriate agencies. All service users are required to sign a guest agreement prohibiting any antisocial behaviour or abuse towards staff, residents, volunteers, or the local community. The organization also maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward begging.

The project adheres to rigorous safeguarding protocols, including risk assessments and background checks for histories of abuse and criminal activity. Referrals for the service come from various sources, including national charities, the Council, NHS social prescribers, GPs, and other local agencies.

During the meeting, opinions were divided. Many local residents expressed concerns about the potential risks associated with an influx of homeless individuals into the neighbourhood. Shelter staff reassured attendees that, based on their experience with a similar venture in Walthamstow, the expected numbers would be manageable and the risks minimal.

A small but vocal group expressed strong opposition to supporting homeless individuals from Walthamstow, despite it being under the same council. Their hostility was directed not only at the initiative but also at the Local Authority itself.

Several members of the Labour Party attended the meeting and John Burnell spoke in favour of the project, highlighting the significant need in the area and the importance of supporting those less fortunate. This stance received both applause and some hostility.

The meeting on 25 February was described as the first in a series of consultations. It will be important for the Labour Party to monitor the situation and continue to offer support as the consultation stage progresses.

Jan Burnell