An open door for Oxford's homeless community

gatehouse-black

How we've grown

The Gatehouse was started by the Oxford city churches as a winter daytime shelter in November 1988 and quickly developed into something more: newspapers, second-hand clothes and board games are provided, as well as an outstanding library of books. Lap-top computers give wireless access to the internet. Just as important is the social contact provided: it helps the marginal “guests” to connect with their own community and the wider world. The doors are open six days a week and no charge is made for any of the services provided.

An independent registered charity (No. 1002741), the Gatehouse's official title is Homeless People and the Oxford Churches, which reflects its client-centred vision and Christian origins. In practice, support comes from across the whole community and the project is entirely inclusive and non-proselytising. In fact, the most striking feature of the cafe is its accepting and non-judgemental attitude towards those who visit, many of whom have serious issues around mental health and addictions to drink and drugs.

The project is staffed mainly by volunteers of all ages who are supported by one full-time and three part-time workers. There are eight trustees, a management committee of twelve and a group of volunteer co-ordinators which meets monthly. The aims are stated to be:
"To welcome the homeless and lonely, and to provide a place where companionship, dignity and refreshment can be found in a warm and safe environment".

In recent years, these aims have been interpreted to include a variety of creative activities such as having an artist in residence and publishing a book of writings and reminiscences. As a result, the Gatehouse was invited to participate in the Oxford Literary Festival in March 2004 and the book OXFORD: ONE CITY, MANY VOICES presented the perspective of homeless people alongside those of award-winning authors such as Philip Pullman, Colin Dexter and Mark Haddon.

This sort of activity makes the Gatehouse much more than a soup kitchen. It gives dignity and self-esteem back to those for whom every day is a bruising reminder that they are considered outsiders in their own city.