As I have had experiance in being in both the Winter Night Shelter, the Hostel and the YMCA flats, I think it would be only fair for me to rate all three parts of the organisation. Winter Night Shelter; I found this project to be a very useful one for me and other guests who all in different circumstances who have become homeless, and the Hostel is full, it was also free from rent and other bills, all you have to worry about is being back at the meeting point (Y Base, behind the hostel) at the right time to go to each different venue every evening. The organisation feeds you well, every morning and night you would get a hearty meal made by volunteers. There are also volunteers who ensure everyone has a comfortable night sleep and all the months I had been there (three) there was minimal trouble, the only trouble was certain previous guests which were refused in due to breaking the rules such as drink or drugs. Every Sunday was a great venue located in Woburn Sands, in which you would have entertainment such as singing bands etc. Hostel; The hostel was also good, the management and the staff were also friendly and would really help you in finding you a place to live, and whilst I was staying there there was little trouble. You were also well fed in the mornings and evenings, the only downside every day (but the weekends) you would have to be out whilst they clean and inspect the rooms, and you need to be in at a certain time. On the plus side, you are in a safe, friendly enviroment in which everywhere (but bathrooms and rooms, of course) have CCTV and security at night and you know you feel safe. The guests can also play games such as card games, video games, watch films and the TV, and there is also a pool table in which they can play with if they wish YMCA Flats; The YMCA flats are all unfurnished but once you get all the furnature, white goods etc. for your flat, it will soon feel like home! There is also a sweet residents lounge which includes 6 computers, a pool table, a sound system which you can play music and a TV where you can watch TV and even play games if you wanted to! Certain flats have a garden, at the minute, they are in a pretty poor state, however volunteers, staff and a gardening company are soon getting together to make them look really nice! Also for all good residents (ones who have paid all there rent and/or service charge) there is a free gym available which they can use, which is currently the gym over in Woughton Leasure Centre. Thats all for now folks! read more
