Homeless charity 'disappointed, but council hasn't been particularly supportive anyway'
ONE of Croydon's most well-known charities is set to lose all its council funding.
Nightwatch, which boasts the largest number of volunteers of any voluntary group in the borough, looks after the borough's homeless by providing food, equipment, shelter and advice.
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DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS: Nightwatch volunteers Paul Scivier and Hannah Collis prepare food for Croydon's homeless
Chairman Jad Adams is disappointed at the loss of money, but is determined to ensure that the charity continues to thrive.
He said: "We're lucky as we don't have any paid staff and very little equipment and the council's contribution was small.
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"The £2,000 they gave us only covered the basic costs, like equipment to cook the food, which we prepare for homeless people.
"It is thanks to the community and generous individuals that we can provide an excellent service for the people who come to us for help.
"And we have an incredibly dedicated group of about 130 volunteers who keep us well-staffed throughout the year."
Nightwatch, which was founded in 1976, acts as a first point of contact for homeless people.
It also helps former homeless individuals settle into new accommodation and find employment.
Mr Adams said: "Of course the council's decision is disappointing, but the council hasn't been particularly supportive anyway.
"They weren't even contributing ten per cent of what we need annually.
"The council should be supporting local people who are working to help their community rather than local branches of national organisations.
"Homelessness in Croydon is still a big problem and we will continue to reach out to that community, with or without support from the council."
Last year Nightwatch helped 800 people through its food programme and other services, and helped 54 people resettle in new homes.
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