STAFF, residents and supporters of Winchester Churches Nightshelter launched the charity’s new working name – The Winchester Beacon.

They gathered on Sunday to mark World Homeless Day and the name change.

Michèle Price, chief executive, said: “When we were founded over 30 years ago by Churches Together, we were very much a traditional winter Nightshelter. Over the years, we have evolved and grown our service to ensure that we meet the needs of our residents.”

Changes accelerated during the pandemic when the charity became a 24-hour service so that residents could stay on site all day and night when other services closed their doors. Bedrooms have been changed to single rooms to reduce shared air space. Both of these changes have had such a positive impact on residents that they have been made permanent.

Ms Price added: “The pandemic gave us an opportunity to do things differently. Being open all day has given our residents more stability and the opportunity to access more of our personalised support. Single rooms have given our residents the privacy and dignity that they so need during challenging times”.

The name ‘Nightshelter’ no longer accurately describes its services. Another reason for the change has been feedback from residents who say the name ‘Nightshelter’ can conjure up worrying images and has been a barrier to some people seeking help from the charity. There is also stigma and shame attached to the term ‘Nightshelter’ for some.

“We have spent many months consulting with residents, staff and supporters to find a new name which better reflects the far-reaching service that we provide” explains Michèle. “The Winchester Beacon was chosen as we know that we bring hope and the opportunity to escape homelessness. Our beacon shines so brightly thanks to our wonderful community of supporters and staff working passionately behind the scenes.”

On World Homeless Day, supporters, residents and staff gathered to take a moment to think of all those faced with homelessness. Candles were lit up the steps to the door of The Winchester Beacon to symbolise the path that the charity offers out of homelessness and highlight the beacon of hope that it is in so many lives.