Handbooks

Caring in Bristol produces two handbooks. The Caring in Bristol Handbook and the Housing Support Handbook. Both are free to download. They are published every year, with a physical print run which we are able to distribute while stocks last. This page will always contain the most recent versions of the handbooks. Wherever possible, please check with individual organisations and services for any changes they have made since our latest publications.

UPDATE: Both physical handbooks are currently out of stock. You can still register your interest for future copies below. Work on the 2026 editions is scheduled later in the year.

If you're looking for copies of the handbooks to distribute to clients, please email [email protected]

Caring in Bristol Handbook

Services and support for people experiencing a homelessness crisis in Bristol, including rough sleeping. Information on what's available, and how to access it. 2025 edition.

DOWNLOAD CARING IN BRISTOL HANDBOOK 2025

Housing Support Handbook

A tool for anyone facing money worries or housing problems in Bristol, with information on housing, finances, employment, immigration, food and wellbeing. 2025 edition. Created by our Early Doors service.

DOWNLOAD HOUSING SUPPORT HANDBOOK 2025

Cover of book reading "A Guide to the Renters

Renters' Rights Act Handbook

Renters have new legal rights from May 1st 2026. For help understanding the new rights, visit We-rent.org.uk to find information and organisations near to you that can support you.

You can also download the free guide to the Renters' Rights Act here:

RENTERS' RIGHTS HANDBOOK

All handbooks can help individuals access support, resources, and advice in Bristol. They are also helpful to workers and volunteers to support effective signposting to resources.

Latest

Bristolians spend 45% of wages on rent

Bristol is now seen as the most unaffordable place to rent, even more so than London. What does this mean, and what can be done?
Project Z at Gurt Yurt

A recent camping trip reminds us that the journey beyond homelessness and housing insecurity needs time for self-care.
Caring in Bristol's World Cup Sweepstake Kit

Organising or taking part in a World Cup 2026 Sweepstake for Caring in Bristol helps us to provide essential support for those facing homelessness or housing insecurity in Bristol.
Volunteers' Week 2026

June 1st is the start of Volunteers' Week. We appreciate them... all year round, because they make a difference every day!

Early Doors

Preventing homelessness through advice, support, community coproduction, and more. Everyone has the right to a safe, secure, and warm home.
Bristol Goods

Bristol Goods is a food-led service for people at risk of homelessness. The positive impact of good food is enhanced by the advice and support that Bristol Goods provides.
Housing Advice Drop In

Based in Hartcliffe, BS13, our drop in is a partnership between Early Doors, Housing Matters, and Shelter Bristol.
Work Focus: Hels' Story

Read how Hels worked with Caring in Bristol to turn the tide of homelessness and housing security around to create lasting change.
Impact Focus: Prevention Work

Supported by funding from The Oak Foundation, our prevention work has been evaluated by Homeless Link. Read some of the findings...
A Recipe for Prevention

We're helping people recover from housing insecurity one meal at a time! See what we've been cooking up!
Community Focus: Bristol Goods

We put people first. Find out what some of the beneficiaries of Bristol Goods think about its impact on their lives.
Volunteer Focus: Hayley and Kate

Volunteers are a key part of Bristol Goods' success. Their community knowledge, and passion for change is a vital ingredient in our food-led project.
Team Focus: Early Doors

Early Doors advocates early prevention. Find out some of the many different approaches the team use to stop homelessness in its tracks...
Origins of Bristol Goods

Bristol Goods evolved from our pioneering food support project developed as a response to the Covid-19 lockdowns. Known as Cheers Drive, it was the UK’s first-ever free food delivery service for people affected by homelessness.