A charity which runs a foot clinic to help homeless men and women suffering from ulcers, corns and callouses has been given a welcome boost by a shopping centre.

Forest Churches Emergency Night Shelter (FCENS) received £1,200 from The Mall in Selborne Road in Walthamstow - enough to cover the cost of eight weekly sessions.

The Waltham Forest-based charity which provides hot meals and accommodation for 30 rough sleepers from November to March runs the clinics with the help of a local chiropodist.  

Mehul Kamdar of Healthy Feet First in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, said the patients he treats at the weekly clinics have “very neglected feet”.

“Their general foot care is poor and they rely on their feet, particularly those that cannot access public transport,” he said.

“Some have serious medical issues relating to conditions such as diabetes and this service is able to prevent the need for hospitalisation. With NHS cutbacks many of these people cannot access chiropody services and the work carried out in the shelter is invaluable.”

FCENS trustee, Corinna Creasy, added: "We are delighted to be able to offer this additional service and are very grateful for Mehul’s expertise.”  

The Mall has also launched a clothing collection and is asking people to donate good quality men’s and women’s coats for people sleeping rough in the community. Items can be dropped off at the customer service desk from now until October.  

General Manager at The Mall, Rebecca Bird, said: “We are really pleased to be able to offer some practical help and it is fantastic to see the difference that it makes to those needing shelter in our area.”