York team opens hub for people facing homelessness and isolation

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A drop-in to support the wellbeing of people experiencing homelessness and isolation is being opened by The Salvation Army's Early Intervention and Prevention Team in York.

The hub at the New Earswick Sports and Social Club in White Rose Avenue will be open for people to pop in on a Tuesday and a Friday to have a cuppa, chat and to get signposting information for different services.

The new address will also be the main contact point for the church and charity's Early Intervention Project, which offers street walks, signposting and exercise classes to people who are rough sleeping or vulnerably housed.

The hub is next door to New Ways Boxing, a community gym and wellbeing centre due to open in early 2027. This has been built and funded by the community and is led by Early Intervention Service Manager Charlie Malarkey, with support from The Salvation Army.

Charlie said: "We've now got a dedicated Salvation Army space in New Earswick where we will be hosting a drop-in service on Tuesdays and Fridays as part of our Early Intervention and Prevention work.

"We know how isolating it can be sleeping on the streets, the feedback we get from people during our street walks is that they want some company and somewhere warm to be. We've got tea, coffee and plenty of biscuits.

"The idea is this will link into the work we're doing at the wellbeing centre next door. For years we've been hosting boxing sessions for people who are experiencing homelessness, struggling with their mental health, addictions or isolation - and they go down a treat.

"People will be able to come to boxing classes then drop in next door for a good chat about mental health, housing, debt, anything. We'll help or we'll signpost them to the appropriate services. They will also be able to access showers at the wellbeing centre."

The focus for Charlie and support worker Tony, who has joined the Early Intervention Team, is to support anyone who is experiencing homelessness, with early morning street walks focusing on helping those who do not have a local connection to York so are not deemed a priority for housing.

The Early Intervention Project is an integral part of The Salvation Army's city-wide strategy led by York Salvation Army leader Andrew Vertigan. Andrew said: "It's so encouraging to see all our community and church services connecting together. The importance of offering a safe and warm supportive space to people is vital, not least as we enter into the long dark winter days."

As we head towards Christmas, they will be preparing hampers to give out to those sleeping on the streets and are in need of donations, including treats such as pringles, chocolates, biscuits, and warm items like socks, hats, and gloves. Financial donations are also welcome as they can help to purchase food vouchers, help with transport and warm clothing especially as the weather gets colder.

To donate to the Christmas hampers or find out more email [email protected] or phone 07712 443163. Donations can also be posted to New Earswick Sports and Social Club, White Rose Avenue, York, YO32 4AG.

For 160 years, The Salvation Army has been here in the hardest moments. We're here in Yorkshire with warmth, welcome and urgent practical support. To find your local Salvation Army visit https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/map-page