The Salvation Army in Winton extends compassionate support to the homeless community

In the heart of Winton, The Salvation Army is a beacon of hope and compassion, tirelessly working to uplift those facing the harsh realities of homelessness and food poverty. Every Monday evening, their doors open wide to offer more than just a hot meal—they provide a sanctuary where individuals can find warmth, care, and dignity. From shower facilities to professional foot care, the team ensures that even the most overlooked needs are met with kindness and respect.  

This vital work is part of the broader Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Homelessness Partnership, a collaborative effort to bring stability and support to those in need. Beyond Monday nights, The Salvation Army’s commitment continues daily, with emergency food parcels and a coat hub providing essential resources to help people through tough times. Their partnership with local charities and the council ensures that individuals receive not only immediate relief but also access to long-term solutions, such as housing support and health services.  

Tina Shave, the Winton Salvation Army Community Centre Manager emphasizes the importance of restoring dignity and addressing health needs that can often go unnoticed. Foot care, for example, has become a cornerstone of their work.  

Tina said, “We don’t just want to put a band-aid on the problem. It’s about restoring dignity and addressing health needs that can otherwise spiral into bigger problems. For someone who is homeless, something as simple as cutting their toenails can make a world of difference. Our goal is to work with individuals to help them find stability and resilience, while also addressing the root causes of homelessness and poverty. We’re here to make life easier for people, and ultimately, we want to see no one sleeping on the streets.” 

“We know that with the support of our partners, the council and the generosity of the community, we can help people find their way to a better life.” 

In addition to meeting immediate needs, the church offers professional advice through partnerships with local charities like Faithworks, St Mungo’s, and the council’s homelessness services, helping individuals access follow-on support and accommodation. 

In a statement, Bournemouth Christchurch Poole (BCP) Council said it is committed to addressing homelessness in Winton and across the region, with a focus on prevention and early intervention. The Council is actively working to prevent homelessness through increased outreach and support services, ensuring that individuals at risk receive help as early as possible.  

Cllr Kieron Wilson, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regulatory Services at BCP Council said, “BCP Council is committed to tackling homelessness across the conurbation. Working alongside our partners such as the Salvation Army, we have decreased the number of people rough sleeping in Winton and are seeing a reduced number of people living in temporary accommodation across the region.   

"It is essential that we offer both immediate and long-term support solutions to prevent homelessness from recurring or occurring in the first place. Early intervention and outreach services are helping us to quickly identify and support individuals at risk, while our Housing Advice and Housing Options support services work to enable sustainable housing solutions for the future.”   

The Salvation Army remains steadfast in its mission to bring hope and practical support to the community, combining immediate relief with long-term solutions. Whether it’s providing a pair of trousers, offering a listening ear, or connecting individuals with vital services, the team is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve. 

Emergency food parcels are available daily for those in crisis, and the team works closely with the local food bank to ensure no one goes hungry. With the cost-of-living crisis deepening, the demand for these services has surged, prompting the organization to expand its efforts. Recently, they launched a coat hub in collaboration with local churches, providing warm winter clothing to those in need. 

For more information about The Salvation Army’s work in Winton or to find out how you can support their efforts, visit Winton | The Salvation Army.