Creating opportunities and dignity for people in Copenhagen 

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Kirkens Korshær (DanChurchSocial in English) works to help citizens in Copenhagen, Denmark: people experiencing homelessness or seeking financial security, or navigating housing challenges, health issues, or seeking connection and stability. It runs shelters, day and night centres, and provides other services. When Graham Yantis talks about his work with Kirkens Korshær, his voice carries the weight of responsibility and compassion. “Our work isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential,” says Graham.  

Indeed, in 2024, Denmark reported a population of nearly 6,000 people experiencing homelessness, of which approximately half are in the Copenhagen metropolitan area.  
 
As the area director, Graham oversees the organisation’s shelter, Kompasset (the Compass in English). Of the people experiencing homelessness that Kompasset tries to help, some 33 per cent come from non-Danish backgrounds, according to research from The National Research and Analysis Center for Welfare. Not speaking Danish, it can be difficult for them to learn about opportunities to find help. “At Kompasset, we welcome them with dignity,” says Graham. 
 
One of the defining features of Kompasset is its approach. Unlike many other shelters that require guests to meet specific criteria or participate in programmes, Kompasset offers its services unconditionally. “You can come as you are and leave as you are,” says Graham. “This isn’t about forcing people to change or meet expectations. It’s about creating a safe space where they can simply exist, without judgement.” 

This approach reflects the Scandinavian model of total acceptance and ensures that everyone feels welcome. The team recognises that providing a space for rest and respect is a critical first step in helping people regain stability. As well as providing a place to sleep and wash, Kompasset allows them to store personal items. “We want people to feel that they have a place to belong, regardless of their circumstances,” says Graham. 

In Denmark, winter shelters operate from mid-November to the end of March, to help accommodate the need for people to sleep in a safe, warm environment during the winter months. Most publicly supported shelters only operate during that period. However, DanChurchSocial operates two shelters outside of this narrow window, including in October and April, when temperatures can still be low. 

“During October, we are the only shelter providing services,” says Graham, “Each night, our shelters are full. Some nights we have up to 60 people needing a place to sleep. Without this essential support, they would be sleeping on the streets, often in freezing conditions.” 

The bureaucratic process of registering, obtaining a tax card, and opening a bank account can take immigrants months. As a result, they rely on informal jobs to survive, or carry out activities like bottle collecting, which provide immediate cash. Kompasset helps people navigate the Danish system and unlock opportunities for housing and employment. Many guests bring valuable skills and experience from EU member nations and are eager to contribute to Denmark’s workforce. Denmark’s labour market has a significant shortage of workers in areas such as construction, cleaning, and demolition – positions which many migrants are eager to take. However, systemic issues often prevent them from accessing these opportunities. Systemic complexities often delay progress for motivated individuals, despite their readiness to work and integrate. 

Despite challenges, Kompasset remains a beacon of hope, a place where lives are rebuilt and possibilities are rediscovered. “Even small victories, like helping someone sleep safely for a night, can be life-changing,” says Graham. 

Oak Foundation Denmark has supported Kirkens Korshær since 2018. Oak Foundation Denmark partners with foundations and organisations that have a direct impact on people’s lives. Visit Oak Foundation’s Danish website here. You can find out more about Kirkens Korshær and Kompasset here.