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A new volunteer reflects on the Christmas Roof...
West London Initiative on Single Homelessness
For years I have contemplated volunteering at a shelter for homeless people over the Christmas period. I finally decided to take the plunge at WISH's 1997 Christmas Roof. Since the initial briefing meeting, I have not stopped asking myself why I waited so long. As a 'first timer', I chose to do the minimum of 3 eight hour shifts. However, as the Trustees can vouch, at the end of the shelter I had to be forcibly removed from the premises, kicking and screaming, because I could not believe it was over. I am still in denial!

One of the most striking things about the Roof was the range of services available to the guests. Apart from food and shelter there were health services (including dentists, doctors, chiropodists and an optician), a clothing store, hairdressing and, depending on your skills - I have none of the above - you were involved in assisting in a variety of these. Basic shift duties ranged from gate duties to spud peeling, from administrative assistance to 'mingling'. There was never a dull moment. The shifts usually passed quickly (except when I was cold) and it was often a surprise when volunteers for the next shift came to relieve us. The variety of tasks was complemented by the flexibility of the shift leaders. With the emphasis very much on team work, the leaders proved approachable and supportive as they encouraged new ideas or suggested improvements. Everyone was appreciated. Appreciated that is, not only by the leaders and fellow volunteers, but also by the guests who were unable to thank you enough for giving up your time (a total that amounts to one whole day out of 365 in a year.)

Both the guests and the volunteers had such diverse backgrounds and interesting stories to tell. I met some amazing and compassionate people and feel that I gained far more from volunteering than I can claim to have given. The atmosphere was inviting and everyone, guests and volunteers alike were so friendly; all enjoying the Christmas festivities together.

It is not really a question of why I volunteered for WISH, rather a question of why did I not do it sooner ? To best describe how I felt at the end of the Christmas Roof, I am forced to rely on the sentiments of a pop hero of a bygone era, Roy Wood, when in 1973 he belted out those immortal words:

.... I WISH IT COULD BE CHRISTMAS EVERY DAY....

Charlotte Goodman

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