For more than 35 years, I’ve been part of the Doorstep community here in Camden, North London. And in that time, I’ve watched the number of households in temporary accommodation reach record levels. 

Temporary accommodation is meant to provide a valuable safety net for those at risk of homelessness. But, what’s meant to be a short-term solution often becomes a long-term reality. This often means raising children in unsuitable, overcrowded spaces for far too long. The strain it puts on families can be immense.

At Doorstep, we’re here to make that experience a little more bearable. To offer families not just practical help, but also dignity, joy, and connection. We currently have space for around 50 families in the hostel above our family centre, which means at any given time, there are up to 130 children calling Doorstep their home. While some move on quickly, others spend significant parts of their childhood here. Often uprooted from some of their social or support networks, our focus has always been on creating a space where families can feel safe, supported, and part of a community. 

The importance of play

Challenges in temporary accommodation, such as unsuitable living spaces, can limit children’s ability to play. We know that play is essential for a child’s development, impacting physical, social and emotional growth - particularly in a child’s formative years. This was highlighted in CHI’s recent Evidence Note, which found that facilitating play and organising social activities can also improve wellbeing and create stronger friendships. 

We see the difference that targeted, compassionate support can make. Our programmes are designed to respond to what families tell us they need - from age-appropriate after-school and holiday clubs that give children a chance to play and learn, to celebrations that make every birthday special.

We’ve also introduced practical services that make everyday life a bit easier: industrial washing facilities, a weekly bazaar offering free clothes, toys, and books, and one-to-one support with complex matters like school applications, benefits, and official paperwork. These things may seem small, but they help reduce stress, build confidence, and create moments of normality and connection.

Over the years, we’ve adapted to meet changing needs but the core of what families want hasn’t changed at all. Every parent I meet simply wants what any of us would: a safe, stable place to call home, and the chance to build a better future for their children. 

We know that the long-term solution lies in ensuring families spend as little time as possible in temporary accommodation, and can move quickly into permanent homes. Until that becomes reality, however, we would like to see more evidence highlighting the crucial role of services such as Doorstep, and greater support for them. That way we can help families not just survive, but find moments of happiness, belonging, and hope.

Here are some of the things our clients said about Doorstep:

“We lived in temporary accommodation near Doorstep which had just one room and a kitchen for nearly two years - myself, my husband, our two teenage children, and our eldest daughter who is 23. It was an incredibly difficult time. When we heard about Doorstep, we were so happy, as we were facing many challenges. The organisation helped us with everything from daily needs to more complex matters, and it gave us hope and comfort during a tough period. My children really enjoyed receiving birthday presents, taking part in activities, and simply having a place where they could relax and feel part of a community.

– Iryna, mum of three, went on to volunteer for Doorstep and is now working

“From our very first week as residents, we started using the services at Doorstep. We love the crèche, the outdoor activities, such as the beach trips during the holidays, and the weekly bazaar. The support they provided has been essential for my emotional and mental well-being - I truly felt cared for.”

- Ana, mum and Doorstep volunteer

‍