Leigh Road Baptist Church are opening their doors to the homeless one night each week as part of the Southend Winter Churches initiative. They are looking for volunteers to assist in the following ways: Welcoming and talking with the guests, which could involve eating the evening meal with them; cooking the evening meal; helping in the kitchen, serving and washing up; staying overnight; preparing and washing up breakfast; cleaning and clearing away tables, chairs, bedding etc. They are drawing up a provisional rota for volunteers to come one or two weeks per month,although nothing is set in stone! The shelter will be set up from around 6pm, guests arriving at around 7pm. People sleeping over need to be there by 10pm and the premises clear by 8am.

A Volunteers Evening is being held in November (date to be confirmed) and there is a briefing meeting for all night-shelter volunteers at Shoebury Baptist Church on Monday 14th November. If you feel you can help please phone John Bastin who will be happy to answer queries. John’s number is 01702 872062/07780977728.