The Ipswich Winter Night Shelter opened on 29 November and runs through to 6 March 2018, accommodating up to 12 residents each night. Guests can freshen up, enjoy a hot nourishing dinner, spend the evening in a warm and safe place, share time in friendly company, sleep in a clean and comfortable bed and eat a good breakfast in the morning before they depart. The Shelter works with local churches, volunteers and community groups to provide a place to eat and sleep in the cold winter.
Conservative County Cabinet Member for Ipswich, Cllr Paul West, donated £500 from his locality budget to help fund new mattresses. Eight other County Councillors have also given donations.
Last winter, more than 300 volunteers gave up their time to support the project.
Bookings have to be made via the Ipswich Housing Action Group (IHAG), and the Housing Options Team at IBC amongst others.
Paul says “There is much amazing work carried out by IWNS and many other organisations and volunteers, whose work makes a positive difference. Officials advise that although members of the public may be tempted to give money to a rough sleeper, you are suggested to not do so, as more often than not, it will be spent on drugs. If you want to help financially, please donate to one of the registered charities supporting people in these situations.”
For more details about the Night Shelter, and to donate, please go to-