Congregations urged to put their buildings at the disposal of the homeless amid the pandemic

Fr Dominic Robinson SJ visiting the kitchens of The Connaught Hotel where meals have been prepared to feed the homeless via St Patrick's, Soho Square.

Fr Dominic Robinson SJ, the chair of Westminster Justice and Peace Commission, has issued a direct plea to congregations in England & Wales: “have you got buildings that you are no longer using or could spare temporarily,  which could be adapted to house the many homeless who are about to find themselves back on the streets as the lockdown eases?”

The government’s ‘Everyone In’ campaign saw 1,200 homeless people moving from the streets to hotels in Greater London.   Local authorities have now been asked to move on those clients.  Up to 70% of these have no recourse to public funds.  Overall, around 5,400 homeless people who have been housed in emergency pandemic accommodation for three months face the prospect of returning to rough sleeping.

“We are working with local authorities and businesses to ensure shelter, food and pastoral care to those who will have to leave hotels in early July,” said Fr Dominic, adding that some with health and addiction issues have been in better health in accommodation and still need support.

But he’s also issued a warning about a new dimension to the human misery : “people who have lost jobs and homes during the pandemic – and they are pouring onto the streets in growing numbers – who need to be looked after.”

Caritas Westminster is keen that none of the people who’ve had a break from rough sleeping have to return to the streets.  It’s appealing for any accommodation across London and Hertfordshire, that might be used to house those individuals.  There will be a full risk assessment with support from the local authorities and agencies, prior to accepting an offer. 

Central London Catholic Churches have been providing emergency food for up to 200 people daily in Trafalgar Square. “Some funds are being promised to rehouse the homeless currently in hotels and we stand ready to work together for a permanent and holistic solution to this affront to human dignity which sees those who have lost everything with nowhere to turn” said Fr Dominic.

Any congregation that might be in a position to  help is asked to email: merielwoodward@rcdow.org.uk