Home is more than just a place; it’s a feeling of safety, stability, and peace. Yet, for many in East London, this is a distant dream.  

Read on to find out more about the stark realities of homelessness and how Housing First can help provide a solution.

The Crisis We're Facing

In the last year, there has been a 19% increase in people seen sleeping rough in London.  

• 11,993 people were seen rough sleeping in London in 2023/24, a stark reminder of the growing crisis.  

• Of these, 7,974 slept rough for the first-time, making up 66% of all people sleeping rough in the period.  

• Alarmingly, 48% of these individuals have mental health support needs, 29% have drug-related needs, and 28% have alcohol-related needs.  

*Data from Chain Annual Bulletin Greater London 2023/24 

Our Solution: Housing First

Our highly effective Housing First Service gives people with a history of long-term homelessness direct access to housing, without the need to meet the rigid criteria often associated with social housing. 

Residents are offered support to ensure maintain their tenancy and rebuild their lives, giving them an opportunity to establish a life beyond homelessness and addiction. 

Since the service was established in October 2020, 86% of residents have maintained their tenancy, many for the first time in their adult lives. 

Housing First Impact

• Tailored support. Tenants access support for physical and mental health needs, benefits, substance use issues, and criminal justice issues.  
• Stable tenancies. 65% of residents have kept their homes habitable without intervention, and 70% have regularly attend appointments with external mental wellbeing agencies.  

• Supporting women. We offer women support tailored to their specific needs and all the women joining the service have maintained their tenancy.