On Tuesday, 11 August, Bishop Neil visited the Swindon Night Shelter and Haven Day Centre, a support hub providing a sanctuary for individuals facing homelessness or vulnerability in Swindon. During his visit, he spoke with staff and volunteers who support the project which provides a lifeline for so many in the local area.
Swindon Night Shelter is a Christian charity serving the homeless and vulnerable, working to break the cycle of homelessness. They do this by providing accommodation, a day centre, nutritious food, support, and by other relevant means – through partnerships with other organisations to help transform lives.
The Haven Day Centre welcomes those who are homeless and vulnerable to enjoy breakfast and lunch, hot drinks, shower and laundry facilities, access to computers and phones and a warm space to relax.
During 2025, the charity saw 6,872 Haven day visitors, serving 13,744 meals. They also accommodated 235 individuals through the night shelters housing and supported 1050 people per month through affordable food clubs.
Following his visit, Bishop Neil said:
"One thing that struck me about my visit to the Haven was the dignity with which the team there hold the people who use the shelter. For example, the food and toiletries available are in a supermarket set-up so that people can come and choose what they would like to use and cook. The overnight accommodation is clean and homely with an effort made not to be “institutional”. This way of being and of engaging with the community is clearly deep in the culture of the way that the Haven works and was inspiring. Again, I am struck that volunteers help the world go round and it’s the same with the Haven. Faithful, committed volunteers making a difference for people in need."
You can find out more about the charity by visiting their website at the link below.