Homewards is actively collaborating with six key locations in the UK - Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Lambeth in London, Newport, Northern Ireland, and Sheffield - to implement and exhibit innovative approaches that prevent and resolve homelessness.
By emphasizing collaboration as a core principle, Homewards is highlighting the possibilities achievable through joint endeavors.
The milestone event in Lambeth, south London, acknowledged the significant progress made since the initiative's inception in June 2023.
It gathered stakeholders from the six pivotal locations and representatives from the broader homelessness and private sectors.
The six local coalitions established post-launch now involve over 500 individuals and organizations from various sectors including public, private, and third sectors.
During his visit, Prince William engaged with representatives from each of the Homewards locations, learning about their accomplishments in the past year and their future focus areas.
The event included a discussion between Homewards advocate Sabrina Hatton Cohen and Chris Lynam, a lived-experience advocate from the Sheffield coalition, underscoring the significance of incorporating insights from individuals with lived experiences into homelessness solutions.
In his address, the Prince expressed gratitude to program partners, advocates, and stakeholders from the homelessness, public, and business sectors for their dedication and backing.
He commended the dedication and zeal demonstrated by every individual and organization involved in the program, highlighting the collective resolve to combat homelessness at a local level.
Besides making a tangible impact in each region, the Homewards program intends to leverage insights from these locations to develop a proven model that can be applied in other parts of the UK and globally.
Additionally, the initiative seeks to alter public perceptions of homelessness by enhancing awareness, fostering empathy, and instilling confidence that homelessness can be eradicated.