Daniel Layzell, our dedicated relief worker shares his thoughts on CENS’ latest training and the impact working at Colchester’s night shelter has had on his life
A few weeks ago, the staff at CENS attended a first aid training day. As is often the case with these courses, most of our time was spent practising CPR. Only a small portion was dedicated to dealing with cuts, burns, bumps, and the everyday injuries that most of us encounter far more regularly. As a father of three adventurous daughters, these minor mishaps are almost a daily event in my home. I sincerely hope that I never have to give CPR to my children – or to anyone, for that matter. But I’m grateful to know the basics, should the need ever arise.
CENS staff taking part in First Aid Training
Emergency care
Here at CENS, we welcome residents from widely different backgrounds, each carrying their own story, often stretching back to childhood. What we offer is simple but essential: a place of refuge. A safe space. The basics that every human being needs to survive – shelter, warmth, food, and someone to talk to. It’s a secure, short-term home, where residents keep their own room, with ensuite for the length of their stay. They remain with us until a more permanent solution can be found. In many ways, we provide the emergency ‘CPR’ people need to enable their journey towards a more stable, positive life.
Lives changed
I’ve witnessed so many lives change within these walls. People rediscovering their focus. People confronting issues they were never able to face before. Sometimes this was because of addiction, sometimes instability, and sometimes simply because life never gave them the space or support to heal. Again and again, conversations with residents return to the same theme: society. Where can they go for friendship? For peace? For purpose? For a sense of belonging? Many have spent years – sometimes entire lifetimes – surrounded not by support, but by chaos.
All of us, no matter our background, need stability. These are the emotional plasters and bandages that help wounds heal. And people do heal when they are surrounded by compassion, a sense of belonging, purpose, and acceptance. These all strengthen the soul. A soul at peace can perform miracles. But none of this is possible without that initial “CPR”: safety, recovery, treatment, and love.
A season of giving
Here at CENS, the night shelter is the emergency room. And through our various move-on options, including our own supported properties, we are able to continue walking alongside residents as they rebuild their lives.
When listening to our residents’ stories, I’m reminded how fragile circumstances can be. Many of their situations stem from one or two decisions – trying a substance for the first time, spending time with the wrong group, or making a choice with the little they had. Others come from situations entirely out of their control: losing a job or a loved one, or being asked to leave a property without any safe alternative. Homelessness often begins at the crossroads of vulnerability and crisis.
Christmas is a time of compassion, love, empathy, and giving. These gifts are received with deep appreciation by our residents. But homelessness is not a seasonal issue. It is a reality faced every day of the year.
Over the Christmas season, our residents will enjoy generous meals, treats, warm clothing, and small comforts – all given with kindness, and all received with gratitude. These gestures mean more than many people realise.
Wishing you all a joyful, peaceful, and compassionate Christmas.
If you would like to donate to CENS this year, visit here