Homewards has been collaborating with six key locations in the UK - Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Lambeth in London, Newport, Northern Ireland, and Sheffield - to implement and showcase innovative solutions that prevent and eradicate homelessness.
Through a collaborative and transformative approach, Homewards is highlighting the power of collective efforts in addressing this issue.
The milestone event in Lambeth, south London, celebrated the significant progress made since the programme's launch in June 2023.
The gathering brought together stakeholders from the six focal areas along with individuals from the broader homelessness and private sectors.
The local coalitions formed post-launch now involve over 500 participants from the public, private, and third sectors.
During his visit, Prince William engaged with representatives from each of the six Homewards locations, learning about their achievements over the past year and their future priorities.
A highlight of the event was a conversation between Homewards advocate Sabrina Hatton Cohen and Chris Lynam, a lived-experience advocate from the Sheffield coalition, underscoring the vital role of individuals with direct experience in shaping solutions to homelessness.
In a brief address, Prince William expressed gratitude to program partners, advocates, and stakeholders from the homelessness, public, and business sectors for their dedication and backing.
The commitment and passion demonstrated by all participants in striving to end homelessness locally are truly inspiring, and he believes that collective efforts will yield positive results.
Apart from making a tangible impact in each community, Homewards aims to develop a proven model based on findings from the pilot sites, which can be replicated in other parts of the UK and beyond.
The program also seeks to transform public perceptions of homelessness by fostering better understanding, empathy, and hope for a future without homelessness.