The homeless charity, Doorway, supports people experiencing homelessness in rural north Wiltshire. Through their work, they create opportunities for people to make positive changes in their lives. This includes moving from rough sleeping to permanent accommodation, increasing confidence and skills via groups and courses, reducing substance misuse, and improving health.
More than 1,600 households became homeless in Wiltshire last year. Being homeless is isolating, and often results in poverty, isolation, poor mental health and substance misuse. A lack of access to local services also means people struggle to improve their situation without help.
Doorway offers practical support to approximately 320 single adults (over 16) annually. They provide warmth, hot food, showers, clean clothes, and company. They also improve access to local services by making direct, in-person referrals to housing, health, addiction and other professionals. Through their group activities and courses delivered by partner agencies and their venue, they help people to build confidence and skills.
Doorway has established itself as a key service in the local community. It is the only organisation in the area which provides practical help to people experiencing homelessness.
The funding received recently from Selwood Housing’s Stronger Communities Fund, means they’re able to continue providing such vital support services. This is especially important during these financially challenging times when there are more people in need than ever.
We’re so grateful to have received this grant at a time when budgets are stretched, and we need to do more for more people who are in ever greater need.
Jo Kitching, CEO at Doorway
