Update: SWEP is currently deactivated
Eastbourne Salvation Army Winter Night Shelter (SWEP)
Eastbourne Salvation Army will once again open its doors to run the Winter Night Shelter (SWEP) for those in our community who are homeless and assessed as low or medium risk. In partnership with Eastbourne Council, we provide a safe, warm refuge on the nights when the temperature drops too low for anyone to be outside.
Inside, guests are welcomed with dignity, warmth, and compassion. Each person receives a freshly cooked, nutritious two-course evening meal, along with unlimited tea and coffee. The evening offers a calm and friendly atmosphere—time to watch films, play games, read, or simply enjoy conversation. At the end of the night, each guest is given a clean, warm bed to sleep in.
Come morning, a hot cooked breakfast awaits, along with cereal, toast, and more tea and coffee to help start the day with comfort and strength.
Every bit of this is provided completely free of charge. Our aim is not only to offer shelter, but to extend genuine care, hospitality, and stability during the coldest nights of the year.
We wish we had the resources to open every night throughout the winter, but sadly we just don’t have the money or the volunteers so at the moment our commitment is: whenever the feels-like temperature reaches 0°C (usually around 3–4°C), we will open.
How to Access the Night Shelter
The process is simple, but registration is essential.
• Before 5pm, individuals must visit the Council Hub at 14 Grove Road, on the corner with Ivy Terrace (opposite the police station).
• After 5pm, they should call the out-of-hours service on 01323 410000.
Please note: Guests cannot turn up directly at the Salvation Army without registering first.
Together, with compassion and community spirit, we’re making sure no one in Eastbourne faces these bitter nights alone.
