“I honestly don’t know what I would have done without the churches this winter”
FORMER GUEST
Who we are
The Cambridge Churches Homeless Project (CCHP) is a collection of churches and a synagogue that work together to offer practical care and support to people who would otherwise be sleeping rough in our city each winter.
We are volunteers from the faith community and the wider community who want to show love to our neighbour in a practical way.
We work in partnership with the various agencies in the city.
We are a small charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) employing one part-time coordinator/ project worker.
And we believe that in 2023 no-one should be without a roof over their head.
“The growing challenge of homelessness in our society is one of the great scandals of our time. Christian communities, recognising the immeasurable value of every individual, must continue to witness to the dignity of the homeless, to serve their needs, and to challenge society to confront a situation which is shameful for a wealthy nation and a prosperous city.”
Dr. Rowan Williams | former patron, CCHP
What we do
We offer a warm bed, a good meal and a listening ear for rough sleepers during the coldest months of the year.
We do not exist in isolation but work in partnership with the statutory services and homeless charities to ensure the work of CCHP complements existing work and does not compete or cut across other services.
CCHP takes referrals from people who are sleeping rough; guests cannot refer themselves but must be referred from one of our partner agencies (eg Wintercomfort, Jimmy’s, Cambridge Street and Outreach Mental Health Team etc).
Who is involved?
The night shelter runs because of the involvement of many different people and groups and is almost entirely run by volunteers. We are reliant and incredibly grateful for the many people who give of their time, money or expertise each year.
See our ‘About Us’ section for more information.
Core values
The core values, ethos and behaviours of the Cambridge Churches Homeless Project are rooted in and sustained by the Christian faith which is characterised by a commitment to social justice, bringing hope, building community, celebrating diversity, and showing compassion and reconciliation. We do not discriminate on the grounds of race, language, colour or sexual orientation. We welcome guests, volunteers and partners from all faiths and none asking that they reflect these core values.
CCHP promotes participation and co-production; several former guests have gone on to work as volunteers. CCHP is committed to ensuring those with lived experience are represented at Trustee level.
Contact us
Please email us at info@cchp.org.uk or complete the form below:
Registered address
CCHP
PO Box 1454
CAMBRIDGE
CB1 0LG
Charity Commission number 1174768