Local affordable homes

Supporting Doorway's vital work in our communities

We're proud to support Doorway, a local charity that provides essential support to people experiencing homelessness. Every day, Doorway offers a safe place to go, hot meals, shower facilities, practical help and guidance to people who need it most.

To shine a light on the incredible work they do, we've created a short video highlighting the difference they make in our communities.

As part of our ongoing support, Selwood Housing has donated restored mobile phones to help those accessing Doorway's services stay connected and contact vital resources such as online banking and doctors surgeries. We've also provided funding through our Stronger Communities Fund to help the charity continue delivering its important work.

We hope you'll take a few minutes to watch the video and learn more about the important role Doorway plays in supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our area.

Wessex Water hosepipe ban

The unprecedented hot, dry weather we have experienced this summer has led to drought conditions and sustained high demand for water.

As a result, Wessex Water is introducing a temporary hosepipe ban from tomorrow (Tuesday 18 August).

This means household customers must not use a hosepipe for activities such as watering gardens, washing cars or windows, cleaning patios or driveways and filling paddling pools. 

By using water wisely, you can help keep water flowing for everyone, protect the environment and potentially save money on your water bill too.

• Let the lawn go brown - it will recover when the rain comes
• Use a watering can for plants, early in the morning or later in the evening
• Reuse washing up water for patio pots and move them into the shade so they dry out less
• Wash car windscreens and number plates only, with a bucket and sponge

You can also save water indoors by taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and fixing dripping taps.

You may be exempt from the hosepipe ban if you have a physical disability or chronic illness. Find out more about the temporary restrictions and exemptions below.

If you'd like advice on saving water, help with your bill, or information about support available, Wessex Water runs free community drop-in sessions across the region where you can speak to a customer adviser in person. No booking is required. 

Beat the heat at home

This summer has brought several periods of extreme heat, and more hot weather could still be on the way. When temperatures rise, it's important to keep your home comfortable and safe, while keeping energy costs down.

Here are some simple ways to stay cool:

• Open windows overnight or early in the morning to let cooler air in. During the hottest part of the day, close windows, curtains and blinds to help keep the heat out.
• Make the most of fans by using them only when needed. For extra cooling, place a bowl of ice in front of a fan, or position a fan near an open window in the evening to help push warm air outside.
• Keep doors closed to unused rooms during the day so cooler air stays where you need it most.
• Hang a damp sheet or towel in front of an open window to help cool air as it enters your home.
• Avoid using ovens and hobs during the hottest part of the day. If possible, use an air fryer, slow cooker or cook outdoors to keep excess heat out of your home.
• Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours, and check in on family members, neighbours and friends who may be more vulnerable to the heat.

With hot, dry weather becoming more common, a few simple changes can make a big difference to your comfort and wellbeing.

For more advice on staying safe in hot weather, including support for people who are more vulnerable to heat-related illness, read this Beat the Heat article. For other health and wellbeing advice, check out our dedicated webpage.

Summer days out for less

Looking for ways to keep the family entertained without spending a fortune? The government's Great British Summer Savings scheme is helping families enjoy more this summer, with discounts on days out, meals and travel. 

You can find offers on attractions, cinemas, theatres, museums, soft play centres and family meals by entering your postcode on the Summer Savings website. The scheme runs until 1 September 2026, giving families more opportunities to get out and about for less.

Hop on! Free bus travel for children

Children aged 5 to 15 can travel free on participating bus services throughout August. Whether you're visiting family, heading to the park or planning a day out, it's a simple way to save money during the school holidays. 

Save money on family meals

Many cafés and restaurants are also offering free or low-cost children's meals during the holidays, including:

• Tesco Café: children eat free with an adult purchase and Clubcard. 
• Morrisons Café: free children's meal with a qualifying adult meal. 
• Asda Café: children's meals for £1, with no adult purchase required. 
• Restaurants including PizzaExpress, Bella Italia and ASK Italian also have summer meal offers for families. 

Don't forget about FUEL

If your child is eligible, Wiltshire Council's FUEL (Food, Unity, Energy and Laughter) programme offers free holiday activities, nutritious meals and fun experiences throughout the summer holidays.

With free travel, discounted days out and affordable family meals available this summer, there are lots of ways to make family memories while keeping costs down.

Follow us on social media to keep up to date with what's happening