Doorway is a charity drop-in centre for those who are homeless, sofa surfing or who have complex issues that might affect their ability to acquire and / or sustain a tenancy
We believe that homeless and marginalised adults are capable of change and will only achieve their full potential when offered a safe, supportive, empowering and non-judgemental environment which will help reverse the downward spiral of homelessness.
As well as providing guests with everyday basics like freshly cooked food, and laundry and shower facilities, we also offer a range of activities such as:
- music
- creative writing
- art workshops
- indoor football
- IT training
- women’s group
These activities aim to build self esteem and teach new skills as a first step to moving into work and sustaining a tenancy.
The Doorway Writing Group has produced an anthology of poetry and lyrics:-
Come On Through is a collection of poetry and lyrics produced by the Doorway Writing Group, and is being sold on behalf of Doorway Wiltshire Ltd. The anthology gives an insight into the lives of our guests, people whose voices are rarely heard, and who are frequently marginalised or disowned by society. They come from all walks of life; they may lead chaotic lives within systems that often seem to confuse more than they help; some struggle with debt, family breakdown, addictions or poor mental health provision. What comes through in their poetry is how human they are, how their aspirations are not for glitz and glamour, but for a place to call home, for love and respect—things we all need. Every one of our guests has a story to tell and at Doorway we listen, so come on through and hear what they have to say.
Come On Through is available on Amazon
New sections on the blog:-
- Guest Profiles – read the stories
- Volunteer Profiles – read about some of our volunteers
Doorway Annual Review 2016
Doorway Annual Report & Financial Statement 2015 – 2016
Download Samsa K’s eBook for Kindle from Amazon here “The Voice Inside My Head” = written by a guest and published by Doorway Wiltshire Ltd
“September 5th 2009. This was the day I stopped drinking. I had many subtle hints during the previous two years of my mental meltdown that this was probably the way to go. I was going to call this piece DISJOINTED RAMBLINGS AND REFLECTIONS ON THE JOURNEY OF A BROKEN MAN.
The Voice Inside My Head told me that this was too long-winded. I argued with The Voice and said the journal would lack coherence, lucidity, structure. I said events would not necessarily be in sequence etc. The Voice said that by the time people had read the title they would have lost the will to live. The Voice suggested an alternative, hence the title.
The Voice is right.
The Voice is always right.
The Voice has a massive ego.”
Find out our latest news on our blog
Read the Doorway Guest Survey & Report 2013 “The Real Impact of Welfare Reform”
Visit the Friends of Doorway page to see our events calendar
If you would like to volunteer at Doorway please complete an application pack
Shortlisted for the Wiltshire Council Public Health Award for Outstanding Contribution 2014
Wiltshire Council Public Health Award for action to reduce drug and alcohol misuse 2014
Sainsbury’s Chippenham Local Charity of the Year 2014 / 2015
Lloyds Bank Community Fund Award 2013
Winner of the 2013 Chippenham Area Board Community Team Award for Volunteering in the Community
Nominated for the 2013 Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Winner of a 2013 Aviva Broker Community Fund Award for Community Spaces.
Shortlisted for the 2012 Wiltshire Council & NHS Wiltshire Voluntary and Community Award for Improving Quality of Life.
Winner of the 2011 Wiltshire Health & Wellbeing Highly Commended Award for improving mental health and wellbeing.
Winner of the 2010 Wiltshire Health & Wellbeing Award for Action to prevent alcohol and drug abuse.
Currently funded by:
Wiltshire Community Foundation, Chippenham Borough Lands Charity, and numerous donations from private trusts, local businesses, individuals, Churches and other organisations.
