Commons praise for Torbay night shelters

Churches across the country can learn from them, MPs told

The work of Torbay churches providing night shelters for rough sleepers in the bay has been praised in the House of Commons.

During the regular session of questions to the Church of England, Torbay MP Kevin Foster asked what steps the church was taking to support work by local parishes to end rough sleeping.

In his answer, Andrew Selous MP, the Second Church Estates Commissioner, congratulated local churches providing the Winter Night Shelter in Paignton and thanked them for their work.

He particularly highlighted Mark Gridley and Gary Mitchell, saying they had been instrumental in leading the projects, and that the whole House of Commons was grateful for what they are doing.

Mr Selous said he was sure churches across the country could learn from the excellent Night Shelter initiative in the bay. 

Following the debate, Mr Foster said: “Church buildings and congregations can work well with local councils to reduce rough sleeping by providing not only a bed and a meal, but also the opportunity for lasting spiritual and emotional support through membership of the church family.

“It is therefore good to be able to highlight and see recognised the work of the night shelter.”