An Acton church tackling homelessness and loneliness – one Wednesday at a time
It’s a Wednesday morning and I’m off to the busy Westway in Acton. Why? I’m meeting one half of the husband-wife team who preside at St Katherine’s Church to find out how they’re bringing the community together
Every Wednesday morning, Rev Lesley Tate hosts Alive and Kicking, a two-hour drop-in session that’s open to anyone in the community, of any age, who might just like to have a natter. It all happens in the unassuming church which exists just a short throw from the Westfield shopping centre – an example of the contrasts in West London.
When I arrive I’m surprised to see – despite a table laden with biscuits, coffee and all manner of herbal teas – there’s only a single person here. His name is Bob and every week, without fail, he comes for a tea and a chat with the team at St Katherine’s. This week, he’s arrived with his record collection in tow. A few more people arrive later, including Dave and his baby Lydia.
Besides this weekly effort to bring the community together, St Katherine’s takes part in the Glassdoor Winter emergency shelter circuit where, from November to April, the homeless charity partners with churches and community venues across London to offer a roof over the head of anyone sleeping rough. Those in need of shelter during the coldest time of the year can register online to secure a warm bed from a different partnered location for each day of the week. On that particular Wednesday, the church was home to 30 men and five women of all ages and backgrounds, and if the smell coming from the kitchen all morning was anything to go by, they were all in store for a great hot meal.
Unfortunately, homelessness is not a diminishing issue in London. Last winter, Glassdoor reported that there was a 42% increase in demand for its services with 1,800 people registering for a shelter online. With far more applicants than available beds, the need for more venues like St Katherine’s to ensure a welcoming face exists in the community can’t be underestimated and needs to be supported.
So if you know anyone in the Acton area that might benefit from a friendly chat from 10.30am-12.30pm on a Wednesday morning, then please point them in the direction of St Katherine’s. Or, if you would just like to support their amazing work then join the Horton and Garton team at one of the church’s upcoming fundraising quiz nights (May 15) or one of their jazz evenings (September 26).
For more details, visit www.stkatherineswestway.org.uk
To find out how you can help or donate to Glassdoor, visit: www.glassdoor.org.uk
Pictured are Rev Lesley Tate, curate of St Katherine’s, and her husband Jim Tate, senior minister at St Katherine’s.
