Winter 2010, several homeless people sleeping rough in central Milton Keynes, despite freezing temperatures and thick snow on the ground. At the time the YMCA was the only viable option for many, and, with their beds full, a new solution was needed. A conference brought together people from various interested agencies to discuss the issue, and the concept of winter night shelters in Milton Keynes was born.

In 2011 the first winter night shelters took place across the city and in 2012 the Winter Night Shelter Milton Keynes became a registered charity. Over the years our role has grown and evolved. We introduced welfare services that run all year round following an increased need locally for advice and support around the issues that can lead to homelessness.

Often the first place people come when facing homelessness, our team offer emotional and practical help to ensure we give guests the opportunity to stop the cycle of homelessness.

Due to no longer ‘just’ being a night shelter, in November 2023 we rebranded to become UnityMK.

UnityMK reflects the work we do – we work together with our guests and offer them hope for a brighter future. The word ‘unity’ is about working in partnership with our guests and other agencies to provide a range of services and pathways out of homelessness. It reflects that it will take all of us together to end homelessness in our city.