Established 2005 Registered Charity No. 1110656

Scottish Charity Register No. SC043760

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Crisis at Christmas

February 18 2013
Tony Porter writes with his view of the seasonal service in London


A reader has contacted us with some kind words about Crisis's annual Christmas offering…

"I have been attending Crisis at Christmas in London for some years now and have always found the events both supportive and enjoyable. As one who has experienced homelessness and who has no family to speak of, I have always found such venues most welcome. After all, if you have no home or family, where on earth do you go for Christmas? Crisis is now part of my lifestyle and in many ways I think I have a better Christmas than some of my friends!

"Of course, Crisis may not be for everyone. Just finding the centres can be a challenge, including even discovering the way in. They are often crowded, noisy and grubby and sometimes there appear to be queues everywhere. However, if you arrive early in the morning, all can be sweetness and light. Occasionally the volunteers outnumber the clients and you may even encounter lots of volunteers all busy chatting to one another rather than to you.

"Meals are abundant, although both quantity and quality may vary. There is always plenty of tea and coffee. In most centres, you can have your hair cut or get a massage or even have your nails brushed! Sometimes you can obtain new clothing or at least get your existing clothing mended. You can also meet doctors, nurses, counsellors and so forth and you might even find yourself running out of problems to discuss!

"There are films and television and music. You can play an instrument or dance or join in a sing-along. You may wish to take part in art and craft activities. Curiously, it feels like being back at boarding school and I almost expect a teacher to jump out at me and ask me why I am not keeping myself busy. Mercifully that no longer happens and we clients can now enjoy ourselves by simply relaxing or even sleeping in one of the many lounges.

"Tony Porter"

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