News from DENS – June 2026

Dear DENS supporter,

At DENS, we are proud to deliver services that help break the cycle of homelessness and create lasting change.

It is especially rewarding to see our innovative approach recognised within the sector – reflecting the tireless dedication of our teams and the difference they make every day.

Wendy Lewington, Chief Executive

 

Celebrating the impact of our Therapy Centre


We are thrilled that our Therapy Centre has been recognised by the Homeless Link Excellence Awards, which shine a spotlight on outstanding work by organisations across the homelessness sector!

Our service was Highly Commended within the Excellent Support category, and our staff members who attended the awards ceremony were proud to represent DENS and celebrate this fantastic achievement.


Three DENS staff members at the awards ceremony


 

Congratulations to our amazing volunteer


We’re pleased to announce Stephen Hubbard as the winner of this year’s Derek Baulch Award for exceptional volunteering!

Stephen’s impact is felt throughout DENS – from looking after the gardening at The Elms, to working with our clients in the garden to help them gain valuable skills, to playing a leading role at community events for the Fundraising Team.

Stephen is reliable and always willing to go above and beyond. His energy, initiative and commitment make him an integral part of our charity.


Stephen Hubbard holding his award certificate


 

Help us create valuable opportunities for local people facing crisis


At DENS, we often say we provide “more than a roof and a bed.” This is especially true as we prepare to move into our new DENS Centre – a place for crisis support, growth and transformation.

Please support our More Than Appeal by helping fund everyday items like mugs, laptops and chairs. These may seem ordinary at first, but they can play a vital role in delivering life-changing services to local people who need them most.

For example, £60 could fund 2 chairs – which could be used by clients receiving vital mental health support on their journey to independent living

Donate to our More Than Appeal



 

Looking back on a brilliant Castle Walk


The sun was shining at our flagship summer fundraising event last month, where around 200 amazing supporters stepped up to take on 5- or 10-mile routes across the beautiful local countryside and woodland.

Thanks to everyone involved, including our headline sponsor Safran, we’ve raised valuable funds to support people in our community facing crisis!


a couple of people in DENS t-shirts walking down a road


 

Places filling fast for Abseiling event


There are just a few spots remaining for a thrilling 60ft abseil down the striking new Paradise Depot development in the heart of Hemel Hempstead.

Join us on Wednesday 15th July and do something extraordinary to help rebuild lives in our community!

Secure your spot for the Abseiling event


a woman abseiling down a building


 

New items needed by our Foodbank


Our Foodbank has updated its High Needs list, and we need your help to replenish stock across a number of food and household items, including:

  • Tinned tomatoes
  • Tinned peas
  • Tinned carrots
  • Shower gel
  • 2-in-1 shampoo

Please donate to help families and individuals in our community who are experiencing poverty.

See our high needs list and find out how to donate


DENS staff sorting food items


 

DENS Golf Day is back


Bookings are now open for our event at the prestigious Stocks Golf Club in Aldbury, taking place on Friday 9th October.

Stocks is opening its doors to DENS supporters for an exclusive opportunity. So come and play their beautiful 18‑hole championship course, which is normally reserved for members only!

Book your places for the DENS Golf Day


A golf ball and golf club


 

Are you a shopper at Waitrose Berkhamsted?


On your next visit, please pick up a green token at the checkouts and vote for our Foodbank.

Your support could help our vital service receive up to ÂŁ1,500 in funding!


a man voting for DENS with a Waitrose token


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