In its second partnership with New Horizon Youth Centre, Origin Housing has launched Project 62, a scheme for formerly homeless young people in Barnet.
Project 62 provides five one-bedroom flats for young people transitioning from supported housing to semi-independent living.
To minimise the extra costs often involved when moving, the homes are fully furnished along with kitchen utensils and bedding.
“We made sure to cover all bases so that all our new residents can just turn up on the day with their belongings and move in,” said Origin’s assistant director of Care and Support, Brian Willmore.
As part of the two-year offer, residents are provided with a quarterly cleaning bundle and are responsible for cleaning their flats and communal areas.
Origin says this not only reduces service charges, but allows them to learn additional life skills to prepare them for fully independent living.
Project 62 also has a dedicated Support Worker from New Horizon, who works alongside each resident for the duration of their tenancy.
Further, New Horizon subsidises bills for those living at Project 62 and provides a resettlement service to help young people move on into independence.
Renee, one of the new residents at Project 62, described it as a miracle.
She said: “I was homeless and often squatting before, but Origin and New Horizon have given me the opportunity to have my own space and a roof over my head.
“Especially during the current situation with COVID-19, it’s been very difficult finding a place of my own so this has been such a huge relief.”
Carol Carter, Origin’s chief executive, applauded the hard work of everyone involved.
She said: “I’m really proud of all the work that has gone into opening Project 62 during the pandemic.
“It’s so important for young people to have a comfortable place to call home, especially during this incredibly challenging year.
“I’m delighted that we have been able to provide this through our partnership with New Horizon, and really look forward to supporting more young people as the project develops.”
Phil Kerry, chief executive of New Horizon, highlighted the impact that Project 62 will have.
She said: “New Horizon has been working tirelessly for 50 years to give young Londoners potential [sic] a home.
“The fallout of Coronavirus has hit young people especially hard and there’s an enormous need for safe and suitable housing.
“Our partnership with Origin has been invaluable, and we have no doubt that Project 62 will play a transformative part in getting these young people the lives they deserve.”
Origin Housing owns and manages over 6,900 properties across central London and Hertfordshire.
Image: Pressmaster/Shutterstock
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