Since opening just before the pandemic, Chapter 15, a charity in Thetford has become a vital safe space for people experiencing homelessness.
Described by some of its regulars as a “lifesaver” and “somewhere worth living for,” the charity provides basic services like showers, laundry, refreshments, and a listening ear, but its impact runs far deeper than that.
Chapter 15 is entirely volunteer-led and currently in urgent need of help on Monday and Wednesday mornings, Saturday mornings, and Monday evenings. Volunteers do everything from serving tea, coffee and cheese toasties to cleaning the shower room, helping with laundry, and simply offering friendship. “It’s not just about clean clothes,” one guest explained. “It’s about being seen and spoken to like a human.”
Kerry, who lives in a camp with her family of four, has been coming to Chapter 15 for over a year. They’ve been on two housing lists for 18 months and have lost their camp to arson attacks multiple times. Chapter 15 has been able to distribute replacement tents, along with clothes and other essentials. “Everyone here is our friend. If we don’t see someone, we check on them. This place is our safety net,” Kerry explained. “We come here every session.”
Many who rely on the centre have plans to give back. Tinkerbell, who’s been using Chapter 15 for two years, now helps other guests while accessing laundry and food facilities for himself and his dog, Jake. Lewis, once homeless and now in a home of his own, volunteers regularly. “Chapter 15 helped me out when I was at my lowest. They helped me to get Universal Credit and a home. Volunteering on my day off is my way of giving back. I never wanted to take anything for free.”
Chapter 15’s model is about more than short-term survival; it’s a route toward stability. Breckland Council’s rough sleeper team, visit each week to help guests find pathways into housing. “We can’t rehouse everyone,” said volunteer centre coordinator, Mike Griffin, who took over from Nadine in January, “but here, they get a hot drink, food, and somewhere warm. That means we can keep in touch.” People are treated with dignity and referred to as guests rather than service users.
A number have since moved into temporary housing, hostels, or secured long-term homes, but the barriers remain significant. Some guests are unable to claim Universal Credit due to residency tests, and younger men with behavioural challenges are often considered high-risk and excluded from hostels. Still, Chapter 15 helps however it can, providing tents, clothing, and essential items when needed.
The charity has secured a grant to pay their rent for a year and has a company who supports them with cleaning products, but otherwise relies on donations, including food supplies. “We do the best we can with what we have,” said Mike. As one guest put it, “We’d be lost without this place.”
To find out more or to volunteer, visit www.chapter15.co.uk or email: mike@chapter15.co.uk
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