Every day at Doorway Wiltshire, people experiencing homelessness find not only food, clothing and warmth, but also dignity, encouragement and the chance to rebuild their lives. Thanks to support from Selwood Housing’s Stronger Communities Fund, Doorway has continued to sustain its vital open‑access drop‑in sessions, helping those facing some of the toughest challenges in our communities.
Over the past three months alone, 105 individuals walked through Doorway’s doors seeking support. Behind every single one is a story, often of hardship, but also of resilience and hope.
One guest, known as N, has been intermittently accessing Doorway for around a year. Having experienced long‑term homelessness and highly transient living, N had not seen a GP since the 1980s. Barriers such as unstable housing, lack of trust and low confidence meant engaging with healthcare felt overwhelming. Through Doorway’s patient, person‑centred conversations and gentle encouragement, N was recently supported to register with a local GP and attend a long‑overdue health check—an important step towards better health and stability.
Doorway’s work is rooted in consistency, compassion and meeting people exactly where they are. From hot meals and showers to clean clothes, internet access, mobile phone support, sleeping bags and more, their team creates a safe space for individuals to make small but significant steps forward. These moments may seem simple, but for someone in crisis, they can be life‑changing.
Jon Yates, CEO at Doorway Wiltshire, said:
“The Stronger Communities Fund has helped Doorway continue delivering its core service, contributing to staff and volunteer time, training, recruitment, guest activities, equipment, and practical essentials such as utilities and office costs. Every penny helps sustain the environment that enables people to move from rough sleeping into temporary accommodation, permanent homes or employment”.
At its heart, the best thing about Doorway’s work is simple: they stay the course. They walk alongside people through every step at their pace, without judgement helping them build confidence, health and a sense of control over their lives.
As one guest put it: “The staff at Doorway are like no other place I have been. The place is so welcoming, and you can get food and get dry and there is lots of tea. The tea is great.” – N.
A Doorway visitor making the most of the space and resources
