“We have had an incredible year of growth and development.”
Marc Goodkind Managing Director
Homelessness is a vast and complex issue that doesn’t have a single solution; no one organisation, or even a single parliament government, can solve it alone. In understanding that reality, I’ve learned the importance of perspective — appreciating that if we continue to innovate, collaborate, and give our best, we are playing our part in making a vital difference.
The past year has brought remarkable growth within The Housing Network. We’ve welcomed new colleagues, each bringing expertise and dedication from various sectors, strengthening our impact.
I am continually amazed by everyone’s dedication and their willingness to go above and beyond. Whether in the field or based in Luton, the team continually exceed expectations, proving time and again their commitment to supporting some of society’s most vulnerable individuals.
That dedication has allowed us to continue to grow. We now have over 220 colleagues, housing over 16,900 people across 2,800 properties in the UK, with 3 distinct service areas.
We have made great strides in our service propositions, refining our approach to ensure we
always offer “more than”. How do we offer more than to our workforce; how do we offer more than to our residents; and how do we offer more than to Public Sector partners? By continually asking and trying to answer those questions we keep moving forward.
Our Ministry of Justice commissioned Community Accommodation Service Tier 3 (CAS3) contract is now embedded in day-to-day business. The challenge of housing 10% of all the people released through the government’s early release schemes meant we housed over 300 early prison leavers in just two days. It was an incredible achievement and showed the total dedication of our frontline teams in just 2 days. It was an incredible achievement and showed the total dedication from our front-line staff through to everyone in Luton.
We have also been successful in being awarded a contract with Liverpool City Council where we are co-producing with the YMCA in the area, with the early outcomes being extremely encouraging.
The real shift change in the business has been the launch of our Active Opportunities Pathway (AOP). This new model operates as an exempt housing solution that allows residents to “step up” or “step down” as they progress in their journey.
Each resident receives personcentric support tailored directly to their needs, ensuring they have the tools and resources essential for growth and stability. This adaptable model has allowed us to meet individuals exactly where they are in their journey.
In September we opened our first commissioned AOP in Leicester — and by the end of 2024, we will be providing Leicester City Council 44 bedspaces with resident-centric support in safe, secure and inspiring accommodation. I am extremely excited at the possibilities of the AOP in 2025 and the coming years.
At the start of 2024 we launched our strategy, The Missing Piece, which articulates a 5-year strategy where we will deliver 10,000 units of safe and inspiring accommodation into 75% of Local Authorities across the UK.
Across 15 roadshows the length of the country, our senior leadership team have engaged with all our colleagues and the overwhelming response has been enormously positive and energised.
I am extremely proud of what we have achieved over the last 12 months and I hope that everyone within The Housing Network feels the same.
This brings 2025 into focus and the endless possibilities that an extremely purpose-driven and focused team can achieve.
71% of residents actively and positively engage with support services offered
62,400 hours of support given to residents across all services
27,453
96.2% Average occupancy level support engagement sessions undertaken between January and October 24
“One of the challenges we face as a company is that we rarely pause to celebrate our achievements.”
A Year of growth
I am extremely proud to introduce our third consecutive Social & Environmental Impact Report. This report provides a sample of some of the things that our incredible teams in our Luton HQ and across the UK do every day. It is only a snapshot, as there are too many examples of us “adding value” to list them all.
While we see social value as a core component of our mission, we also see our growth as a direct contributor to the social impact we have. “The more we do, the more good we can do” is a statement regularly heard at our Senior Leadership Team meetings.
On this measure, 2023/4 has been another good year. Not only have we supported more households than ever before, but we have also expanded the range of services we offer and started to incorporate support into our services in a far more structured way than ever before. This has led to better outcomes for residents, which goes to the very heart of what we are trying to achieve.
Over the past year, we’ve expanded our CAS3 service to provide accommodation and support to almost 1,000 exoffenders who were homeless or at risk of homelessness on release. This is a challenging cohort, but we have had some incredible results.
We have also successfully launched our Active Opportunities Pathway. While it is still early days, we have already had some notable successes. Interest in this service is high, and we believe that AOP is likely to be a key driver of our business going forward. One of the exciting features of the AOP is that, by design, it incorporates support, care, and supervision, which allows us to offer more and track the significant impact we have on the lives of the individuals we are supporting.
Developing our strategy
Over the last year, we spent a significant amount of time debating, refining, articulating, and communicating our strategy. As a result, we are committed to working effectively as a team to deliver 10,000 units of safe and inspiring accommodation across 75% of Local Authority areas in the UK.
We’ve been delighted with how well it has been received in the business, with a genuine “let’s do it” spirit. Part of this process saw us reaffirm our mission and values, and it was clear that these are now embedded in the business. Of course, the adage that culture eats strategy for breakfast is never truer than at THN; however, the dedication and efforts of our team leave me with little doubt that we have the right culture and values operating in this organisation.
Being recognised
Over the past year, we’ve been proudly recognised as a leading business in the UK. While it was an honour to receive a Highly Commended award in the Lloyds Bank Business Excellence Awards for the overall Growth Business of the Year Award Category, we were even more pleased to be the winner of the 2023 Purpose Before Profit Award.
We have also been selected by YMCA NT to partner with them on the Active Opportunities Pathway.
This involved deep due diligence on their part and their conclusion that we have the structure and values that align with their organisation is a genuine endorsement of the business that we have become.
Finally, we were recently invited by Crisis, the national charity for people experiencing homelessness, to participate in their Board strategy away day. They were interested in understanding more about a private organisation operating in the homelessness space that is socially purposed but able to scale at pace. Again, this is a testament to the growing reputation of our organisation.
People
Looked at from any angle, it is the incredible people in our organisation that drive our impact and our success. Without each and every one of them, we would be less effective and undoubtedly less impactful. I, therefore, want to reiterate my admiration and thanks to all my colleagues across THN. Any success we have is built entirely on your hard work and efforts. We are immensely grateful for all you do.
Gary Teper Managing Director
Heart Of All We Do Purpose At The
Everyone deserves the stability and dignity of a home. When people have a secure place to live, they can build stronger foundations for themselves and their families, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Our Vision
When life is at its toughest, we believe everyone deserves and safe and stable place to rebuild their lives.
Our Mission
We aim to fulfil our purpose as an organization by providing;
Our Values
We believe our values should reflect in our behaviour towards our colleagues, partners and residents while we work to achieve our Strategy 2024>29. These values are shown opposite.
7,900 move-ins managed over a 12 month period
16,900
Total
of
The Housing Network is a socially focused business. To evidence this commitment, we’ve changed our corporate constitution to include a statement of responsible business principles, formally confirming that we are purposedriven and seek to act responsibly by following five core ideas:
1. We have a purpose that delivers long-term sustainable performance.
We seek to operate with a purpose that serves society, respects people’s dignity, and generates a fair return for investors.
2. We are honest and fair with customers and suppliers.
We aim to build lasting relationships, treating all stakeholders honestly and fairly.
3. We are a responsible and responsive employer.
We treat everyone with dignity, provide fair pay, foster innovation and personal accountability, and protect and nurture all who work for us to ensure they learn, contribute, and thrive.
4. We are a good corporate citizen.
We consider the impact of our decisions on the communities in which we operate, providing access to opportunities for less privileged people, and making a full and fair contribution to society.
5. We are guardians for future generations.
We recognise our duty to protect the natural world and conserve finite resources.
By being authentically purposedriven and following these principles, we believe that THN will have happier and more fulfilled staff and will be commercially more successful than if it purely focused on longterm shareholder value.
Moreover, we profoundly believe that to be a successful business, we need to consider the contribution we make to the communities in which we operate and recognise our broader responsibility to society and the environment. Being impactful should be a key component of our corporate mission.
number
individuals housed to the end of October
& Four Pillars Our Strategy
Our Strategy 2024 29 will see us provide that missing piece
Underpinned by our Mission, Vision & Values
Homelessness is the visible sign of the symptoms at its cause. It affects individuals and families and destroys lives. Solving homelessness and its impact is a complex topic and requires different pieces to come together at the right time.
As an organisation that firmly upholds its purpose to provide ‘More than a Roof‘,
our Strategy 2024>2029 will see us provide that missing piece in our pursuit to end homelessness.
Underpinned by four pillars, we will pave the way to a future where homelessness is no longer a crisis but a challenge we have overcome—creating pathways to lasting stability, dignity, and opportunity for everyone.
Our 2024-2029 strategy is focused on four key pillars: better accommodation, better support, better partnerships, and better business. Together, these pillars guide us in creating safer, more supportive homes, building stronger relationships, and driving sustainable growth, all to ensure a brighter future for the communities we serve.
Better Accommodation
At the heart of our mission is the belief that everyone deserves a safe and stable place to live.
Our commitment to Better Accommodation means constantly enhancing the quality and accessibility of housing options.
By investing in modern, safe, and supportive environments, we aim to provide homes that empower individuals to rebuild their lives and find stability.
We’re continually expanding our reach and upgrading our properties, ensuring they are comfortable, secure, and equipped to meet the diverse needs of those we serve.
Better Support
Beyond shelter, we recognise the importance of holistic support.
Our Better Support approach is concentrated around comprehensive, person-centred services, ensuring that every resident receives the mental health, employment, and social resources they need to thrive.
We know that moving from homelessness to independence involves more than just four walls; it requires a compassionate team ready to provide guidance and assistance every step of the way.
Better Partnerships
Collaboration is key to our success.
Through Better Partnerships, we will continue to work closely with local councils, charities, healthcare providers, and community organisations to create a network of support for our residents.
These partnerships allow us to amplify our impact, addressing both immediate needs and the underlying factors that contribute to homelessness. By fostering strong, mutually beneficial relationships, we’re building a foundation for sustainable, long-term change.
Better Business
Sustainability and accountability are essential to our vision.
With a focus on Better Business, we are dedicated to operating efficiently, responsibly, and transparently. This commitment includes smart financial management, a commitment to social value, and a culture of continuous improvement.
By making strategic decisions that ensure financial stability and align with our values, we’re able to reinvest in our programmes, expand our services, and maximise our impact across communities.
Accreditations Our
Our accreditations reflect our deep commitment to inclusivity, fairness, and high standards across all aspects of our work.
Being a Living Wage Employer emphasises our commitment to fair pay, ensuring all colleagues earn a wage that supports their quality of life.
As a Mindful Employer, we actively support the mental well-being of our employees, fostering a work environment where everyone feels valued.
Holding Cyber Essentials certification demonstrates our dedication to data security and safeguarding the information of residents, landlords, and partners.
Additionally, as a Menopause Friendly Employer and Disability Confident Employer, we champion a workplace that respects and supports individual needs and promotes equality.
Our participation in the Armed Forces Covenant showcases our recognition of the unique contributions of armed forces personnel and their families.
And as members of the National Residential Landlords Association and the Property Redress Scheme, we uphold the highest standards in property management and tenant services, promoting transparency and accountability.
These collectively represent our values of integrity, inclusivity, and excellence, underscoring our ethos of providing ethical and people-centred housing solutions.
Eddie’s Story
Finding Support and Stability with The Housing Network
Earlier this year, Eddie faced one of the most challenging periods of his life. A mental health crisis led to a two-month stay at St. Mary’s Hospital, where he began the road to recovery. Upon discharge, Eddie was connected to The Housing Network through Kettering Council, and we housed him in one of our HMOs to support his transition back into the community. The adjustment wasn’t easy.
Moving into a new environment came with challenges, but Eddie found comfort in the unwavering support of our frontline team, who were there for him every step of the way. Having someone available to talk to, listen to, and provide guidance whenever he needed made all the difference. Eddie shared how valuable it has been to have this level of support, helping him regain confidence and feel at ease.
Looking to the future, Eddie’s goals are clear.
He’s eager to find a place of his own through the council, marking a significant step in his journey toward independence and stability.
Eddie’s story reminds us of the importance of compassionate support systems for individuals rebuilding their lives after difficult times. We’re proud to be part of Eddie’s journey and look forward to seeing him achieve his dreams.
To learn more about how The Housing Network supports individuals like Eddie, visit us at www.thehousingnetwork.co.uk
Our Impact Growing
Through every home created, countless lives are transformed, each one a foundation for stability, growth, and hope for the future.
Statistics Our 220 Over dedicated colleagues
Individual, Shared and Family Homes
Active from Edinburgh to Plymouth
110+ Working in Local Authorities
1,000 1,000 self-contained properties CAS3 bedspaces Trusted to manage over
500 shared accomodation units
Our Strategy 2024 29 will see us work effectively as a team to deliver 10,000 units of safe and inspiring accommodation into 75% of Local Authority areas across the UK.
The Missing Piece Homelessness:
Our commitment to help end homelessness across the UK.
At The Housing Network, our mission is to create lasting solutions to end homelessness across the UK. National statistics show that over 270,000 people in England were recorded as homeless in 2023, either sleeping rough or in inadequate accommodation.
This figure highlights the urgent need for action to tackle this growing crisis and serves as a stark reminder of the work that still needs to be done to ensure everyone has a safe, stable place to call home.
Our approach focuses on not only providing shelter but also offering tailored support for mental health, substance misuse, and employment opportunities to help individuals regain stability and independence.
Ending homelessness is possible, but it requires communitydriven solutions, compassion, and resources. Programmes like our Seen & Heard initiative and partnerships with charities empower individuals to rebuild their lives and regain independence. By working together, we’re building a future where everyone has a place to call home.
By investing in solutions that address both immediate needs and long-term stability, we believe we can reduce and ultimately end rough sleeping across the UK.
Together, with community support, compassionate programmes, and strong partnerships, we’re moving closer to a future where no one has to be homeless or sleep rough.
2,807 properties in active use as of October 2024
110 local authorities are actively working with us
Progress Together Powering
At The Housing Network, our partners are the backbone of our mission to end homelessness.
Together, we amplify our reach, combining resources and expertise to create lasting change. Each partnership strengthens our ability to provide safe, stable housing and comprehensive support for those in need.
We value every organisation, council, and community member who stands with us, believing that through collaboration, we can create a future where everyone has a place to call home.
Solving homelessness and its impact is a complex topic and requires many different pieces to come together at the right time.
The partnership between the Ministry of Justice and The Housing Network
In today’s world, effective partnerships are essential for addressing complex societal challenges. A noteworthy collaboration has emerged between the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and The Housing Network, aimed at tackling issues related to housing stability, rehabilitation, and social reintegration for individuals involved with the justice system.
A Shared Commitment
Both the MoJ and The Housing Network recognise the profound impact that stable housing has on reducing reoffending rates and promoting successful reintegration into society. By joining forces, we are working towards creating sustainable pathways for individuals transitioning from incarceration back into their communities.
Statistics recently published by the Ministry of Justice UK reveal that more than twothirds of adults in England and Wales who left custody without accommodation in the final quarter of 2022 reoffended within a year. This compares to a comparable rate of 34.9% for those who were in some kind of accommodation upon release.
In other words, those without accommodation are almost twice as likely to reoffend as those with some form of accommodation.
Not only is the link between homelessness and reoffending obvious, the cost is significantthe economic and social cost of reoffending in England and Wales is, according to the last Government, at least £18 billion per year.
Efforts to reduce recidivism, the act of continuing to commit crimes even after having been punished, should be championed and expanded. The Housing Network currently provides 1,000 bed spaces for ex-offenders under the Community Accommodation Service Tier 3 (CAS3) program that provides temporary housing and support for people leaving prison. We see first hand the benefits that community-based accommodation and support can have on some of the most vulnerable and complex people in our society.
Comprehensive Support
This partnership focuses on providing holistic support to individuals who may face significant barriers when seeking housing. Through coordinated efforts, they offer access to vital resources such as housing assistance, employment training, and counselling services. This integrated approach not only addresses immediate housing needs but also supports longterm stability and personal development.
Empowering Individuals
Central to this collaboration is the emphasis on empowerment. By providing individuals with the tools and resources they need, the MoJ and The Housing Network are helping them regain control over their lives.
Workshops, mentorship programs, and access to community services are key components that foster resilience and self-sufficiency.
Positive Community Impact
The impact of this partnership extends beyond the individuals served. By facilitating successful reintegration, the MoJ and The Housing Network contribute to safer communities and reduced strain on local resources. As individuals find stable housing and employment, they become active, contributing members of society, creating a positive ripple effect throughout their communities.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, both organisations are committed to expanding their efforts and enhancing collaboration. By continuously evaluating and adapting their strategies, we aim to better meet the needs of those we serve, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity for a fresh start.
In conclusion, the partnership between the Ministry of Justice and The Housing Network exemplifies how collaborative efforts can address complex social issues. Together, we are not just providing housing, but creating pathways to stability, empowerment, and a brighter future for individuals and communities alike.
2/3rds
£18b of adults without accommodation reoffend within a year.
1000 is spent on the social and economimc impact of reoffending in England & Wales.
bed spaces were provided by the Housing Network for ex-offenders.
Omar’s Story
A fresh start for Omar with The Housing Network
At The Housing Network, we meet remarkable individuals whose resilience and optimism shine through even the toughest of times. Omar is one such person. After facing challenging circumstances that left him homeless for six months, Omar connected with us through the Dawn Centre. For the past four months, he’s been part of our community, working toward a brighter future.
Omar’s journey hasn’t been easy. Like so many in similar situations, he had limited support before finding The Housing Network. Reflecting on his experience, Omar shared how much he appreciates the efforts we make to provide not only shelter but also stability and compassion.
Omar’s story is a reminder of why we’re committed to offering more than just a roof. We aim to create a space where individuals feel valued, supported, and hopeful for their future.
If you or someone you know could benefit from our assistance, please visit us at www.thehousingnetwork.co.uk
Ricky’s Story
Ricky’s journey –From rough sleeping to a new home
For many years, Ricky’s life was filled with uncertainty and hardship. After leaving the military, he found himself homeless, battling severe PTSD, and turning to alcohol to cope. The years of rough sleeping took a toll, and he could barely remember how long he had been living on the streets.
Thankfully, Ricky’s story took a turn for the better when he connected with us through our rough sleeping program. He joined Seen & Heard, a unique program designed to provide support and connection to those in need. Over the past seven years, Ricky has been part of our accommodation community, receiving the stability and resources he needed to rebuild his life.
Reflecting on his time with us, Ricky shared, “They have been so helpful and patient with me. I am happy with my accommodation, and my support worker has been very good to me. I cannot thank him enough.”
His journey has been one of resilience and growth, with the support of dedicated people around him who genuinely cared. Now, Ricky is ready to embark on a new chapter.
In just a couple of weeks, he’ll be moving into his own home – a significant milestone on his journey toward independence.
“I cannot wait to cook my first meal in my own kitchen!” he said, expressing the excitement that comes with reclaiming a sense of self and a place to call his own.
Ricky’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that community support and programs like Seen & Heard can have on individuals who have faced immense challenges. As he steps forward, we wish Ricky all the best in his new home, knowing he has the resilience and strength to thrive.
If you or someone you know could benefit from our support, please visit us at www.thehousingnetwork.co.uk
to Independance Alan’s Journey
A story of support, hope, and progress
In August 2022, the Housing Network was approached by Portsmouth City Council to assist a man named Alan, an entrenched rough sleeper who had spent 38 years living on the streets.
Despite countless attempts over the years to secure accommodation for Alan, he remained in a cycle of homelessness, struggling to find stability.
However, this time, Portsmouth City Council reached out to us with a clear vision—Alan needed not just a home, but a space where he could continue his hobbies and maintain a sense of self-worth. Specifically, he required a shed or garage to store his metal detecting and fishing equipment, activities that brought him peace and purpose.
After considering his needs carefully, we were able to source a suitable property for Alan—a one-bedroom ground-floor maisonette with a small garden and a garage. The property was ideal, offering Alan the privacy and security he had long been denied, as well as the space to continue pursuing his passions.
Alan’s move into the maisonette was a significant step. The support he received from both Portsmouth City Council and The Housing Network played a crucial role in helping him transition from the street into this new chapter of his life. We understood that this wasn’t just about providing a roof over his head; it was about offering holistic support that addressed his physical, emotional, and practical needs. Our team worked closely with Alan to ensure he felt welcomed and supported every step of the way.
Two years later, in November 2024, we received a message from Portsmouth City Council that summed up Alan’s progress:
“Alan has done extremely well in the property. After 38 years of street homelessness, he has managed to adapt well and maintain the property.” Alan had not only found shelter but had made it his home. With the stability of a permanent place, he was thriving in ways we hadn’t imagined at the start of his journey.
His dedication to maintaining his property, keeping the garden tidy, and looking after his garage for his equipment showed a remarkable transformation. The space he now called home became a sanctuary—one that offered him both comfort and a sense of belonging.
The support didn’t stop with just providing accommodation. Throughout his time in the maisonette, Alan received continued support from our team, ensuring he had access to everything from regular check-ins to assistance with any challenges that arose. His resilience and progress were a testament to what can be achieved when individuals are given the right support at the right time.
In a recent conversation with the landlord, we shared the good news that Alan had been offered permanent accommodation.
The landlord, who had been fully supportive of Alan’s journey, expressed his happiness:
That’s the best news I’ve heard all week. I’m so happy for Alan.
This endorsement from the landlord was not just a reflection of Alan’s progress; it was a recognition of the power of collaboration and support in creating lasting change.
Alan’s story is one of transformation, proving that with the right support and a stable environment, even the most entrenched rough sleepers can build a new life. The Housing Network, alongside Portsmouth City Council, played a key role in helping Alan take that first step towards independence, and today, he stands as a symbol of hope for others in similar situations.
Alan’s move into permanent accommodation is not the end of his journey, but rather the beginning of a new chapter where he can continue to live independently, pursue his hobbies, and build the life he always deserved.
YMCA
Strengthening Communities YMCA Partnership
In an ever-evolving landscape of social challenges, partnerships are key to fostering community resilience and support. One such impactful collaboration has seen us work with a number of different YMCAs across the UK.
A Shared Vision
Both our YMCA partners and the Housing Network share a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families. The YMCA has long been a pillar of community wellness, promoting healthy living, social responsibility, and youth engagement.
Meanwhile, the Housing Network focuses on providing affordable housing solutions and support services to ensure that everyone has a safe place to call home.
Program Integration
The partnerships with local YMCA organisations have led to the integration of resources and programs that benefit the community as a whole. For example, families who secure housing through the Housing Network can access YMCA programs that promote physical activity, mental health, and social interaction. This holistic approach not only addresses the immediate needs of housing but also nurtures overall well-being.
Empowering Youth
One of the standout features of these partnerships is its emphasis on youth development. Through collaborative programs, children and teens have opportunities to engage in educational workshops, sports, and mentorship initiatives. These activities not only foster personal growth but also help build a sense of community and belonging, which is vital for young people facing housing insecurity.
Community Impact
The tangible impact of these partnerships are already being felt. Families are not just finding homes; they are also becoming active members of their communities.
By promoting social connections and access to vital resources, the organisations have jointly created a ripple effect that enhances community resilience and cohesion.
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, our organisations are committed to expanding their reach and deepening their collaborative efforts. By leveraging their strengths and resources, they are paving the way for a more equitable and supportive environment for all.
In conclusion, the partnership between local YMCA organisations and the Housing Network are a powerful example of how collaborative efforts can address complex social issues. Together, they are not just providing housing and wellness programs; they are building a stronger, more connected community for everyone.
Our Impact Growing
Through every home created, countless lives are transformed, each one a foundation for stability, growth, and hope for the future.
Impact
Our 220 16,900 2,800 3 colleagues housing over people across properties in the UK distinct service propositions. By the end of 2024, we will be providing Leicester City Council 44 bedspaces
5 10,000 75% year strategy where we will deliver units of safe and inspiring accommodation into
2,400
Provided accommodation and support to almost ex-offenders who were homeless or at risk of homelessness on release. of Local Authorities across the UK.
for Change Collaborating
How The Housing Network partners with local charities to support residents
At The Housing Network, we believe that supporting our residents goes beyond providing a roof over their heads. It’s about building strong community relationships and working together with local charities to meet the holistic needs of the people we serve.
One such example of this collaboration is our recent partnership with One Roof Leicester and Islamic Relief, which resulted in a generous food donation for our residents in Leicester.
Thanks to the dedication of Lena, our community liaison, we were able to secure a significant donation from these two remarkable organisations.
Lena’s tireless efforts in building relationships and fostering collaboration with local charities played a crucial role in ensuring that we could provide this essential support for our residents. The donation included a wide variety of foodstuffs, which took our team an hour to unpack due to the sheer volume—an overwhelming, yet wonderful, sight.
The impact of this donation cannot be overstated. For many of our residents, especially those facing financial hardship, access to basic food supplies is a daily challenge. This contribution will provide much-needed relief and support for all our residents in Leicester, helping to ensure they have enough to eat and are able to focus on their well-being without the constant worry of food insecurity.
The kindness and generosity of One Roof Leicester and Islamic Relief are deeply appreciated, and we are grateful for their commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals within our community.
These partnerships not only provide practical assistance but also demonstrate the power of collective action in making a real difference in people’s lives.
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Lena, whose passion for helping others and building connections made this donation a reality. Her efforts embody the spirit of collaboration that is at the heart of our work at The Housing Network.
This donation is more than just food—it represents hope, support, and solidarity. It is a reminder that, together with local charities, we can create positive change and ensure that our residents have the resources and support they need to thrive. As we continue to strengthen these partnerships, we look forward to seeing the lasting impact they will have on our residents’ lives.
In the end, it’s about more than meeting immediate needs; it’s about building a future where every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity and security. We are proud to work alongside organizations like One Roof Leicester and Islamic Relief, and we look forward to many more collaborations that will benefit our residents and strengthen the community as a whole.
Youth Day International
Supporting young people with Herts Young Homeless
For International Youth Day 2024, we joined hands with the Leicester Community Shop to show our support for young people by doing #morethan and spreading some joy.
On August 12th, we put together goody bags filled with essentials and treats and donated them to Herts Young Homeless, a charity dedicated to supporting young people facing homelessness.
At The Housing Network, we believe in the power and potential of young people to shape a better future.
Our small gesture was a way to show how much we value and care about their well-being.
The Herts Young Homeless team was incredibly appreciative, and we were thrilled to make a difference in the lives of the young people they support.
Youth are the architects of tomorrow, holding the power to more resilient shape a brighter future.
Award Wins!
Our awards highlight our dedication to socially conscious growth and communityfocused impact.
The Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards is the UK’s largest and most prestigious business awards program, so to receive two awards, including the winner in the Purpose Before Profit category, was a huge honour and, we feel, rightful recognition of the work we do.
Winning the Purpose Before Profit Award underscores our commitment to prioritising the needs of residents, landlords, and communities over profit, reflecting a clear focus on ethical practices and sustainable development.
Being recognised as Growth Business of the Year celebrates our ability to expand while staying true to our core values, showing that it is possible to achieve success and growth without compromising integrity or mission.
The Southern Enterprise Awards further validate our innovative approach and significant contribution to the housing sector in the region, establishing us as a leader dedicated to making a positive difference.
These awards embody our ethos of responsible growth, transparency and our mission to provide value-driven housing that truly serve people and communities.
Than a Roof Supporting More
Raising funds to create lasting memories
At The Housing Network, we’re proud to support More Than a Roof, a charity that goes beyond providing temporary accommodation. They are committed to helping individuals not just find shelter but also create life-enriching experiences that bring joy and hope to those who need it most. More Than a Roof believes that everyone deserves to have memorable moments, even in the most challenging circumstances.
To achieve this mission, they have set an ambitious goal to raise £25,000 in 2025, and they have named it “Mission Experience”. This fundraising campaign aims to provide essential support for people living in temporary accommodation, enabling them
to access experiences that might otherwise be out of reach— whether that’s a family day out, a child’s first trip to the seaside, or the chance to try something they’ve always dreamed of doing.
But achieving this goal requires more than just good intentions. It requires action, and that’s where The Housing Network is stepping in, showing our full support.
Together with More Than a Roof, we are gearing up for a major fundraising effort, starting with the Manchester Marathon on the 27th of April, 2025. Our dedicated team members, along with supporters, will be running to raise funds and awareness for this crucial cause.
The joy of seeing a child’s eyes light up as they experience the beach for the first time, or the pride of someone participating in an activity they’ve only ever dreamed of, can be lifechanging. For many, these seemingly small moments are transformative, offering a sense of normalcy, hope, and confidence to individuals who have experienced hardship. By participating in the Manchester Marathon and other fundraising events, we are working to ensure that these meaningful experiences become a reality for those in need. Every penny raised through our efforts will go towards creating opportunities for people to experience joy, build memories with their families, and take steps towards independence.
But we can’t do it alone. We need your help to make this vision a reality. Whether through donations, sharing our story, or taking part in events like the marathon, you can be part of something special.
To learn more about how you can support Mission Experience and help us reach our fundraising target of £25,000 for 2025, visit the More Than a Roof website and explore our upcoming challenge events.
With your help, we can continue to provide not just a roof over someone’s head, but the chance to experience a better, brighter future.
What’s Next For
The Housing Network?
As we look ahead to the future, The Housing Network remains steadfast in our commitment to achieving our 2024-2029 strategy. Our vision for the coming years is clear—we aim to continue creating meaningful partnerships, expanding on the ones we already have, and building a more inclusive and impactful organisation. A key part of this vision is ensuring that the lived experience of homelessness is not only heard but actively shapes our services and outcomes.
One of the cornerstones of our strategy is the More Than a Voice (MTAV) initiative.
As we continue to move forward, MTAV will play an even more vital role in our work. More Than a Voice is dedicated to amplifying the voices of individuals who have experienced homelessness firsthand, ensuring they are involved in the development of services and policies that directly affect their lives. This initiative helps us move beyond simply delivering services to truly understanding and addressing the needs of the people we serve.
There is a profound difference between merely delivering a service and truly living within it. This is why capturing the value of “expertise by experience” is at the heart of our approach. By integrating the insights and experiences of those who have lived through the challenges of homelessness, we can develop services that are more relevant, compassionate, and effective. It is through these insights that we will continue to improve relationships with our residents, develop stronger support systems, and ultimately achieve better outcomes for everyone.
Looking ahead, More Than a Voice will expand its reach and impact. We are committed to providing more platforms for individuals with lived experience to share their stories, ideas, and feedback. The MTAV forum will continue to serve as a space where these voices are not just heard but are actively listened to, ensuring that the people who have the most to offer are integral to our decisionmaking processes.
This forum will be a vital tool for creating a housing service that is not only responsive but transformative. In addition to our ongoing work with More Than a Voice, we are also focused on strengthening our organisation in other critical areas. A major goal for the next year is achieving B. Corp certification, a status that recognises businesses meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. We are already in the process of pursuing this certification, and achieving it will mark an important milestone in our journey to becoming a more responsible and sustainable organisation.
Our strategy is about more than just providing a roof—it’s about creating lasting change for the individuals and communities we serve. As we continue to grow and evolve, we will remain committed to listening, learning, and collaborating. By building on the success of initiatives like More Than a Voice, we will ensure that we continue to develop better services, foster stronger relationships, and, together, achieve better outcomes.
More than a voice is about shifting power and perspective
- empowering those with lived experience to be the architects of change.
