Squaddie Box

Trinity Methodist Church, Clacton, and Hope@Trinity have unveiled a 'Squaddie Box' to support homeless veterans and blue light workers.

In an act of community service, Trinity Methodist Church Clacton and the Hope@Trinity Project have partnered with Squaddie Box to install only the second Squaddie Box in the UK, attached directly to the church’s exterior wall.

Squaddie Box is a grassroots veteran-led charity offering secure, anonymous access to essential supplies, including food, toiletries and survival items, through a 24/7 self-service unit. This particular box is exclusively for veterans and blue light workers who are experiencing homelessness, providing a lifeline to those who have served their country and communities, and now find themselves in crisis.

Hope@Trinity, based within Trinity Methodist Church, has long been a beacon of compassion in Tendring, Essex, offering meals, showers, clothing and one-to-one support to vulnerable adults. Led by Deacon Angela Shereni, the centre fosters community, healing and practical pathways toward stability. The addition of the Squaddie Box extends this mission beyond opening hours, offering discreet, round-the-clock support to those who need it most.

Clacton MP Nigel Farage visited on Sunday 9 November 2025, to officially commission the project.

The Revd Steven Sutton, Methodist minister at Trinity Clacton, shared, "This partnership is a testament to what happens when faith, action and innovation meet. We’re honoured to host the second Squaddie Box in the country right here in Clacton because we believe that those who’ve served deserve dignity, care and a place to turn when life becomes difficult. All are welcome in this place. The Methodist Church is built on caring for others, just as Jesus cared for others, with compassion, courage and unconditional love."

Squaddie Box founding partner Dean Wormleighton added, "We’re proud to see Squaddie Box expand to Clacton. Trinity Methodist Church and Hope@Trinity understand the unique challenges faced by homeless veterans and blue light workers. This box is for them, and it will save lives."

The Squaddie Box is now operational and accessible to eligible individuals. Donations of supplies and financial support are welcomed, and volunteers are encouraged to get involved through Hope@Trinity or directly via Squaddie Box’s website: https://squaddiebox.org.uk/