Colchester's Homeless Shelter

A New Space for Residents: Reflection Room Made Possible by Lanswood

At CENS, our mission is not only to provide safe accommodation for people experiencing homelessness but also to create spaces where residents can heal and their wellbeing can improve. That’s why we are so thrilled to share some wonderful news: thanks to a generous £1,500 donation from Lanswood, we are creating a brand-new Reflection Room for our residents.

This special room will be designed as a peaceful sanctuary, giving residents the chance to step away from the busyness of everyday life and find quiet moments for themselves. Whether it’s a place to meditate, relax, read, or simply breathe, the Lanswood Reflection Room will provide comfort and dignity to those who need it most.

The donation will cover the full transformation of the space, including fresh decoration, comfortable furniture, soft lighting, and thoughtful touches such as books, mindfulness tools, and sensory items. Importantly, we’re involving our residents in the design process, ensuring the room reflects their needs and truly feels like their own.

We are incredibly grateful to Lanswood for supporting this vision. As CENS Manager, Marina explains:

“Many of our residents come to us during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Having a safe, calm, and thoughtfully designed room where they can reflect or simply enjoy some quiet time will make a huge difference to their wellbeing.”

Lanswood – Making a Difference

Lanswood said, “We’re pleased to support CENS in bringing the Reflection Room to life. It’s a meaningful addition to the shelter – shaped by residents, for residents – and we’re proud to play a part in creating a space that supports wellbeing and community.” 

The Lanswood Reflection Room is set to open later this year, and we cannot wait to welcome residents into this new space of peace, comfort, and hope.

We’ll be sharing updates as the project develops — so stay tuned!

The Lanswood Reflection Room as it is now – We can’t wait to show the after pictures!

CENS Essential Shopping List

  • Tea
  • Coffee
  • Sugar
  • Hot chocolate
  • UHT milk
  • Squash
  • Vgetable oil
  • Gravy granules
  • Ketchup
  • Mayonnaise
  • Salt & pepper
  • Stock cubes
  • Herbs and spices
  • Tinned fruit
  • Tinned/packet custard
  • Baked beans
  • Tinned tuna
  • Tinned vegetables & potatoes
  • Tinned tomatoes
  • Kidney beans
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Jam, peanut butter, chocolate spread
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Men & women’s deodorant
  • Men’s razors
  • Shave gel
  • Shower gel
  • Toothpaste
  • Cloths
  • Scourers
  • Washing up liquid
  • Surface cleaners
  • Floor cleaner
  • Bleach
  • Bathroom cleaners
  • Bin bags
  • Food caddy liners
  • Loo roll
  • Washing tablets
  • AA batteries
  • NEW single duvets
  • Pillows/pillowcases
  • Single duvet covers/sheets
  • Clean/good condition towels

Please no soups!
Thank you