The idea for the permanent facility came about after a number of pop-up events at Barking Learning Centre, where guests could see a doctor without an appointment and could also get haircuts, showers, clothes and food.
According to the council, most people who were surveyed at the events said they attended for free food and showers, as well as to see a doctor.
ShowerBox Barking is currently open on Fridays but Maureen Worby, the council’s cabinet member for adult social care, said she hoped to recruit volunteers to have a women-only day.