We make choirs and build joyful singing communities with people impacted by homelessness and marginalisation. This includes people who are currently homeless or were in the past, people at risk of homelessness and those who are experiencing related issues (such as mental health challenges, drug and alcohol addiction, refugees and asylum seekers). This list is not exhaustive, as we acknowledge our members may have a variety of backgrounds and lived experiences.

To keep everyone safe and supported, membership and regular attendance at Choir with No Name is strictly for adults aged 18 and over. You can read more here

We ask that everyone speaks to the Choir Manager before bringing any dog into the space. There is more information here, but briefly: In line with the Equality Act 2010 - rehearsals are always open to people attending with a Guidance/Assistance dog, but we cannot accommodate Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

We are not a dry space or a recovery-specific project. This means we do not automatically exclude people if they arrive having consumed alcohol or other substances. However, if someone arrives visibly intoxicated and is judged to be disruptive, unsafe, or likely to affect their own wellbeing or that of others, they may be asked to leave for that rehearsal and return the following week. For more information, you can view the policy here

There’s a document here which you can refer to for more guidance. At the Choir with No Name one of our values is inclusion, this means welcoming people on their good days as well as their bad.
When someone is visibly upset or frustrated, it’s important to first think about your body language. It’s best to remain calm, keep your voice firm but measured. Avoid folding your arms, reduce gestures, and remember to breathe. Maybe ask them if they’d like to sit with you. This can bring tensions down and feel more comfortable. Avoid standing, when the other person is not.

You can actively listen by acknowledging what they’re feeling. Validation helps people feel seen and heard, which can lower tension and build trust. Instead of trying to fix the situation, we can show understanding by saying things like,

“I can see this is really frustrating for you,” or “That sounds really tough.”

Recognising someone’s feelings doesn’t mean agreeing with their behaviour - it’s about showing empathy and respect, which creates the safety needed for calmer, more constructive conversations.

This guidance (see full document here) supports staff and volunteers to respond confidently and consistently when a member expresses views or uses language that may be hurtful, discriminatory or inconsistent with Choir with No Name's values.

Our aim is not to persuade people to adopt Choir with No Name's beliefs. Instead, we seek to create a calm, respectful and inclusive community where everyone understands the expectations for participating together.