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Colchester Engagement & Next Steps (CENS)

We provide emergency accommodation and help to those most in need across Colchester and Essex.We offer more than just a bed and a meal, providing everything from housing and health advice to learning and support. Our aim is to move our residents on to permanent, safe independent living. We believe that having a home is a basic human right. Since opening, we have helped hundreds of people make fresh starts in their lives.

Colchester Engagement & Next Steps (CENS), formerly known as Colchester Emergency Night Shelter, is a registered charity which has been supporting people who have found themselves homeless for almost 40 years

There is a service charge of £4 per night. 

All information on how to get help and what it is like to stay with us can be found here:   Homeless Hub

Who can use this service?

How are services delivered?

Anyone over 18 and needing support with Homelessness can be assessed. 

Face to Face / Drop in

There is a service charge of £4 per night. 

homelessness homeless support homeless homeless prevention CENS Night shelter next steps Colchester emergency accomodation housing health advice independent living Housing/ Homelessness

Colchester Engagement & Next Steps (CENS)

enquiries@cens4homeless.org.uk

01206 549885

39-41 Alexandra Road
Colchester
CO33DF

Office hours for new enquiries are Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm

Service can be delivered face to face




Service last updated 23/05/2025

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