SOUTHEND’S homeless charity, local churches and Southend Council have teamed up to provide extended night shelters to the town’s homeless community.

The scheme, which provides shelter through to March, is in its sixth year, there are seven churches taking part, adding up to 20 extra beds to the 18 night shelter rooms available at Harp all year round.

This year, the partnership aims to empower guests to work on any issues that might have led to them becoming homeless. Working with a Harp team member, they will create and work through a personalised action plan towards achievable goals.

The partnership encourages any person that has become homeless or is at risk of homelessness to go to the Bradbury Centre in York Road, a warm and safe place for them to recover from the harsh reality of living on the streets.

Each individual who walks through the doors will sit down with a team member from Harp to discuss their situation. Harp will then offer them accommodation, depending on their needs and what is available.

Gary Turner, Harp’s service operations manager, said: “The extended night shelters are a great opportunity for people to be safe, secure and warm.

“They also have the opportunity to engage with us to help move their lives forward.

“It is great to collaborate again to ensure that vulnerable people are receiving the best possible support to help them now, while ultimately working towards a life away from the streets.”

Councillor for Housing, Mark Flewitt, added: “I must thank everyone involved in this great scheme, which ensures people can access food, shelter and companionship.”