Nightlight for Clubbers

People out in Leamington late on Friday night may have noticed something unusual about the forecourt at All Saints Church. Gazebos, chairs, tables and lighting have turned the area into ‘Nightlight’, a late night café for clubbers, running from 11.30pm-3.30am.

The initiative is being run by the Leamington churches in response to concerns about the safety and well-being of those out late at night. It is based at All Saints, but staffed and supported by Christian volunteers and prayer from across the town. The service provides a hot drink, lollipops to counter the effect of alcohol on blood sugar and a listening ear for those who want it. The service is completely free.

Matthew Pittam, curate at All Saints’ Church, runs the Nightlight project. He said ‘lots of people come to Leamington to enjoy themselves on a Friday night but, for some, the evening doesn’t go as planned. Too much alcohol, arguments with friends, or relationship breakdown can leave people alone and vulnerable. We provide a safe place for people to sit and chat, have a hot drink or wait for taxis. People are amazed that the service is free, but as Leamington churches, it is important to us that our presence has a real impact on our local community.’

Leamington churches are most grateful to the Town Council, churches, and individuals for covering our start-up costs, and to those prepared to give up a night’s sleep on a regular basis as part of their giving to the community. Over 50 volunteers from across Leamington churches are involved in Nightlight. Many of the volunteers are older people who are dependable, grandparent figures to those in need. To find out more about Nightlight, contact Matthew Pittam on matthewpittam@yahoo.co.uk. To find out more about the activities of Leamington churches, visit www.hopeleamington.org.uk.