For many people, homelessness is part of a cycle that can feel impossible to escape
Mental health struggles, family break-up, trauma or addiction are all contributing factors to homelessness and barriers to securing stable accommodation.
The instability, isolation, and stress of homelessness often make those issues worse. The cycle continues – until someone reaches out a hand to break it. At CENS, that’s exactly what we do.
Understanding the cycle
Mental health challenges can make it difficult to hold down a job, pay rent, or maintain relationships. Experiencing homelessness strips away safety, dignity, and stability, which only deepens anxiety, depression, and dependence. It’s a cycle that can trap people. But cycles can be broken.
The first step is stability. That’s why we provide safe accommodation. CENS is more than a shelter, it’s a space for change. From here, real recovery can begin. All our residents have the dignity of their own bedrooms with en-suite shower room – a safe space for self-reflection, within which they can recharge their energy. Our communal spaces allow our residents to build new friendships and to begin to regain confidence.

Holistic approach
At CENS we try to help the whole person, not just focus on finding accommodation. We offer the following:
Counselling signposting and mental health support to tackle the root causes of trauma and anxiety. Beacon House is a great day service for our residents to access therapy.
Addiction support to help people regain control of their lives.
Nutritious meals that bring dignity and restore health. Read about our Kitchen Co-ordinator here.
Building Independence
Once people are ready to break the cycle of homelessness,
we can provide move-on accommodation. This step allows them to live more independently, while still having support close at hand. It’s a chance to rebuild life skills, manage responsibilities, regain employment and plan for the future, all without the fear of falling back into the cycle.
Hope Beyond Homelessness
We believe that with the right support, people can break free from the cycle of homelessness, rediscover their strengths, and build a brighter future. Every day, we see this transformation happen. This year alone we have successfully moved on so many residents, and with your continued support, we can help even more people find not just a home, but hope.