Who We Are
Established in 1997, Newmarket Open Door is a charity dedicated to changing the lives of young adults through meaningful housing support. At the core of our work is a simple but powerful mission: to provide not only a safe and stable home, but also the guidance, skills, and opportunities that help young people build brighter, independent futures.
Our charity superstore plays a crucial role in making this possible. Created to generate essential funds for our housing projects, it enables us to offer life changing support to young adults aged 18–24. Many of those we work with have experienced difficult or unstable backgrounds, and we are here to offer more than temporary shelter, we’re here to make a lasting difference.
With a passionate and committed team, we walk alongside each young person on their journey. We help them develop practical life skills, grow in confidence, and discover who they are and what they can achieve. Whether it’s learning how to manage a home, pursue education or employment, or simply gaining the self-belief to take the next step, we provide the tools and encouragement to help them succeed.
At Newmarket Open Door, we believe in potential, in resilience, and in the power of a supportive community. Our work is about more than housing, it’s about opening doors to a future full of possibility.
Our Board of Trustees:
Catherine Staff – Chair
Steve Maddox
Robert Otule
David Staff
Sandra Greatrex
Independent Examiner – Streets accountants
Annual accounts and returns are available on the Charity Commission website:
Our History: Building Futures Since 1997
Newmarket Open Door began with a vision and a five pound donation. In October 1997, a small group of passionate individuals gathered for the first time, united by a belief that young people facing homelessness deserve more than just a place to stay. From that moment, our journey has been one of community, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to change lives.
By 1999, with unwavering support from local partners and Forest Heath District Council, we opened Portland House, our first supported housing project. This milestone marked the beginning of our core mission: providing not only shelter, but the support, guidance and opportunities young adults need to thrive.
Over the years, Open Door has continued to grow, taking on more housing projects, expanding our services, and strengthening partnerships. We’ve adapted to change, responded to crises, and welcomed people from all walks of life through our doors.
In 2006, Terry Waite CBE joined us as our President and Patron, lending his support and belief in our mission. His involvement has been a source of pride and inspiration.
From managing the Newmarket Recycling Centre, to saving the SOS Bus, to launching community projects during the COVID-19 pandemic, our commitment has remained steadfast: to meet need with action, and challenge with hope.
Today, Newmarket Open Door supports young adults aged 18–24, many of whom have experienced complex and difficult lives. Our dedicated team walks alongside them, offering not just housing, but life skills, education, and encouragement to help them rediscover their potential and build independent, fulfilling futures.
What began as a small idea has grown into a movement driven by volunteers, sustained by the community, and guided by a powerful belief: that everyone deserves the chance to thrive.