Crass Routes (CR), running from 2007–2015, was a small, non-profit, artist-led organisation based in the Merseyside area, led by co-directors Janette Porter and Marko Muller. It was set up to respond to a clear gap in support, offering creative and holistic workshops for people on the margins of society, with the aim of improving their quality of life and overall wellbeing. At its core, CR focused on recovery through a personalised and holistic approach, recognising that many of the people involved had complex and varied needs.
The organisation worked mainly with individuals experiencing homelessness, including those sleeping rough, as well as people facing poor mental health and substance use issues. Most participants were dealing with multiple challenges at the same time, which often made it difficult for them to access or stay engaged with mainstream services. A central part of CR’s work was its belief in the power of art as a way of supporting recovery, giving people the space to express themselves, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with who they are. CR worked alongside organisations such as Big Issue, The Whitechapel Centre, Genie in the Gutter, Fallen Angels, and Wirral Mind, as well as through street outreach, helping to reach those who are often the hardest to engage.