Homelessness is not inevitable, and the Early Doors workers and participants are carrying that message into some of Bristol's most-affected communities. This happens in a variety of ways, always in a way that is preferred by each community, and always based on their expressed needs.

Community-based Coproduction Groups

The Early Doors team organises co-production groups the BS13 and BS5 neighbourhoods of Bristol. Both areas have their distinct issues around housing. The groups bring residents together to explore housing issues that are often 'red flags' that warn us that the risk of homelessness is increasing. This could be overcrowding, dilapidation, or changes to personal circumstances. The groups are solution-focused, looking at actions that can be taken to prevent problems from building to a crisis point.

Here's what Nicky, a co-production group member says:

"I started attending the co-production meetings nearly two years when I was invited by a neighbour. I introduced someone else and through mainly word of mouth the group has steadily been getting bigger. It's a great way to meet other local residents and I've found it really informative about the local area. We've got a good core group together now and with the leadership of Karen [Early Doors team] are finding resident-led ways to tackle the area's problems. I think all of us feel a sense of empowerment and achievement in attending these monthly meetings were we also make friends and glean knowledge about our area."

The group also seeks to influence decision-makers in the city. For example, the group made a collective response to a consultation about Bristol City Council's allocations system for social homes, HomeChoice. They also meet with local business representatives to press for better local resources, and alert other residents to information and advice that can help to prevent homelessness. They also invite speakers from around the city to build knowledge and share skills.

Early doors also works with their partners, Housing Matters and Shelter Bristol, to provide a weekly housing advice drop-in. This gives residents quick and easy access to expert housing advice. The team's Housing Support Worker also helps individuals who are struggling with issues that push them towards a homelessness crisis, as well as working alongside our Bristol Goods food project to provide specialist support to its members.

The Grit Awards

In 2022 Early Doors worked with Bristol-based artist Rachael Clerke to develop and deliver 'The Grit Awards' for Bristol Harbour Festival. The interactive event engages the public in conversations about precarious and insecure housing issues. Awards are given to those who have had to show grit and determination to survive the many barriers that a broken housing system presents. They are also signposted to support if they need it. The awards are a celebration of the voices that we don't hear enough.

“I feel unexpectedly emotional. Finding somewhere to call home was a struggle. I now realise how hard it was, but also how strong I can be. Thank you!” (Grit Award Recipient)

The Grit Awards were so successful that they have been taken to subsequent events, such as Bristol Pride, where members of the LGBTQ+ community are disproportionately affected by homelessness and precarious housing situations.

As always, the Early Door team provides their invaluable 'Housing Support Handbook' at the events. This is a directory of resources to help Bristol's residents to navigate areas such as housing, debt, and other areas of life that can impact on the risk of homelessness. It's available as a free download.

Download 2025 Handbook (PDF)