Summary

The guests rated the drop-in very positively, mostly because of the friendly, safe atmosphere and having somewhere to meet others in the same situation.

The only subject of which no one said that they "liked it as it is" was activities. All guests wanted some activity at the drop-in and this was seen to be at the main area of need for future development of the centre. The most popular activity requested, was music, with outings and arts being very popular.

Conclusion

The survey revealed some of the range of interests and needs of the drop-in guests. The most immediate needs appeared to be satisfied; that of having a safe, welcoming place in which to meet others in the same situation, and practical needs met, such as food and clothing.

There was a near consensus on the guests' desire for more opening times, ideally all week, but at least a few hours every day.

The guests were keen for more activities at the centre, outings being the most popular idea with the arts a close second.

There were skills and talents amongst the guests which they offered to share.

Practical types of help and advice were voted as being important to guests, and this was echoed by the number of appreciative comments about the clothing available and being able to get dry and clean as well as fed.

The food provided by the drop-in centre was very popular, but with encouragement the guests gave a wide range of other likes and dislikes. The guests also offered to help with the cooking.

Following the results of the survey, Doorway subsequently introduced the Wednesday afternoon 'Activity' sessions in order to provide guests with music workshops and a series of art project workshops entitled › "Pictures and Words" funded by The Anchor Trust and North Wiltshire District Council.

Download the full first guest survey› "Chippenham Drop-in Survey"
by Karolyne Fudge Malik, Bufferzone 2004