‘It’s a simple but powerful expression of care in action”
The Reverend Canon Harriet Neale-Stevens, Portsmouth Cathedral
Portsmouth Cathedral has partnered with Portsmouth City Council and the charity, the Society of St James (SSJ) to open up its doors to those experiencing homelessness this winter.
The project, between the Cathedral, the council, and the SSJ – a charity with over fifty years of experience supporting people to move forward from homelessness – is offering up to 12 guests a place to stay in the Cathedral’s Beckett Hall until mid-March.
All guests are referred and assessed in advance by the council ensuring that those who stay are low-risk and suitable for the setting and there will be two trained SSJ staff members present throughout each night to help create a calm and well-managed environment.
The Reverend Canon Harriet Neale-Stevens, Canon Chancellor and Vice Dean said:
“As the nights draw in, this partnership allows us to offer warmth and kindness to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
‘The guests who stay with us are referred through the Council’s experienced team, and the project is carefully managed to ensure everyone’s safety and peace of mind.
‘It’s a simple but powerful expression of care in action.”
Tania Marsh, Chief Executive, Society of St James said: “At SSJ we know how vital it is for people to feel safe and respected, whatever their circumstances. Our experienced staff will be on hand every night to offer both support and reassurance, ensuring the shelter runs smoothly for guests and the wider community.
“We’re grateful to Portsmouth Cathedral and the City Council for their partnership in making this possible.”
Cllr Darren Sanders, Cabinet Member for Housing and Tackling Homelessness, said: “I’m very pleased to see this excellent example of a community working together to support our most vulnerable members.
“Homelessness and rough sleeping is something we can all help to combat, and having this extra option available for people rough sleeping in Portsmouth is so important.”
Each morning, guests will be invited to the council’s Rough Sleeping Hub on Queen Street, where they can enjoy a hot breakfast, shower facilities, and access to help with housing, health and benefits. The Becket Hall shelter offers more than a bed for the night, it provides a bridge towards stability and renewal.
Local residents have been informed about this initiative, and the Cathedral and council teams remain available to answer any questions.
This initiative has been made possible due to extra funding from the government’s Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
People at risk of homelessness can contact the council who can help them talk to their landlord or family to stay in their home and access practical or financial support to find a new home. People experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse, can also talk to the council’s Domestic Abuse Housing Specialist.
