News & Updates

It’s Time To Talk

Mental Health and Homelessness It has long been known that there is a strong connection between mental health and homelessness.

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Aaron’s Story

3 years ago Aaron hit rock-bottom, found himself homeless and came to CENS for help. Last week he was back at the shelter, but this time it wasn’t as a resident – he was donating hats, gloves and scarves.

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A time for change

CENS has been reopened now for 4 months and although it has been incredibly challenging, we are delighted to say we have 14 new residents, all settling into their rooms in our newly refurbished shelter. There are so many new developments at CENS. Did you know that we have changed our name to Colchester Engagement & Next Steps? Not only that, but we have a brand new logo to represent this evolution.

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William’s Amazing Fundraising Story

William is one of our most active fundraisers, holding not just one, but three book and bake sales this Summer alone. He has raised hundreds of pounds for CENS and we had a quick chat with him to try and find out the secret to his success.

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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