Chippenham charity reflect on devastating impact of recent storms
Doorway has moved to a temporary location in the meantime
The floors are up, and everything inside has been ripped up, after weeks of devastating storms flooded a homeless charity in Chippenham.
Doorway are still assessing the impact of the damage - but their HQ is expected to need months of repair work, costing thousands of pounds.
A 'lifeline'
CEO Jo Kitching told us: "What we do is an absolute lifeline, and people regularly tell us how if it wasn't for Doorway, they really wouldn't know what they'd do.
"After the flooding, we continue to provide everything - but our drop-ins are happening in a different place, on Station Road in the town.
"So, in the main, as far as our guests are concerned, there's no real difference.
"Where we're usually based at the Citadel is a hub for the agencies for people to meet people who need the most support, so the most marginalised in our society are those who are either homeless or at risk of homelessness.
"So what the Citadel does is provide the community a place where people know they are very, very welcome.
"After the flooding, we have so much going out in unexpected costs - and for a charity like ours, it could be absolutely devastating.
"We run with very little money in reserves, so the fundraiser is playing a vital role in our recovery, which could take months."
Read more: The clean-up continues across the West Country after Storm Bert
'Devastating'
On the GoFundMe page set up on behalf of the charity, they say the impact has been huge.
More than £5,000 has so far been raised.
It reads: "Storm Bert left his mark on Doorway and central Chippenham last weekend when the river Avon burst its banks. Our building, the Citadel, has flooded and we are unable to open to support those who are rough sleeping or vulnerably housed.
"We are currently working from other local venues, including the Rotary Hall and Community Hub and had a call yesterday from a rough sleeper to thank us for continuing to be there to help him stay safe and warm.
"We plan our finances carefully, and make sure that we raise enough to cover 'business as usual' through the year. Unexpected events such as this can have a devastating impact, and as a small charity with appropriately limited reserves we really need the support of the community to help us get through it.
"Being homeless is isolating and often results in chaotic lifestyles, poor mental health, poverty, substance abuse and crime. Coupled with a subsequent lack of access to services people struggle to improve their situation without help. Doorway offers practical support by providing food, showers, clean clothes, regular activities and company, and improves access to local services by making direct referrals to professionals. We improve confidence and skills through group work and courses, and believe that when people are given the right opportunities in the right environment they are able to make positive changes to their lives."
Read more: Storm Bert: Wiltshire Council defends response to devastating flooding
The charity insist that they are operating at normal session times from the Rotary Hall on Station Hill - and are urging anyone who can to help as they start the process of getting back on their feet at the Citadel.