The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, recently joined Outreach workers Ewa & Ariel on a night street shift in Westminster. Walking the streets of central London he got to chat to some of the people sleeping out and learn more about homelessness in the Capital, and how The Connection helps rough sleepers move away from the streets.

Pam Orchard, Chief Executive, of The Connection says:

“It was fantastic to host a visit from the Archbishop of Canterbury and we really appreciate him taking the time to learn more about the reality for rough sleepers and the growing crisis in homelessness in London and across the UK.

Homelessness has more than doubled in the last five years and his visit will help bring awareness of the issue, while highlighting the vital role that homelessness charities and faith groups play in working with people who are isolated, marginalised and living on the edge of society.”

Ewa, one of The Connection’s Outreach workers, describes what happened on shift:

“We walked through Covent Garden and Embankment. We spoke to five clients; two of them were given appointments for assessment at the centre so we can find out more about their situation and how we can help. We checked in with one prior to being seen with a psychiatrist, two were working and sleeping rough. Sadly none of them accepted a referral to our emergency Night Centre but our role is to persist with people until they are ready to accept help.”