New housing scheme for former rough sleepers launched in Aylesbury

Buckinghamshire Council, in collaboration with Homes England and Fairhive Homes, has announced the launch of a newly developed housing scheme in Aylesbury. It aims to provide move-on accommodation for former rough sleepers, offering them the support they need to transition into permanent, settled homes.

The scheme features seven fully furnished, self-contained one-bedroom homes, designed to offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals who have previously experienced homelessness. The focus of this initiative is not just on providing housing, but on delivering comprehensive support to help residents achieve independence.

Councillor Mark Winn, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regulatory Services at Buckinghamshire Council, commented on the significance of this project: "This scheme represents a vital step in our commitment to tackling homelessness in Buckinghamshire. By providing tailored support and high-quality accommodation, we are giving individuals the opportunity to rebuild their lives and move towards a brighter future, I wish all of them well on their journey and would like to thank Fairhive for working so closely with us on this project"

Each resident will benefit from the assistance of a highly skilled tenancy support officer, who will offer personalised support based on individual needs. This support includes help with accessing welfare benefits, budgeting, shopping, cooking, building and maintaining healthy relationships, understanding the implications of risky behaviour and accessing local health and education services; all aimed at empowering residents to live independently with minimal support.

The homes themselves are built to high standards, which include good levels of insulation and energy efficiency. Each home features a private decked area, with communal parking and cycle store. The construction includes a Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery (MVHR) system to ensure fresh air circulation and prevent dampness and mould. Additionally, the homes are equipped with solar (photovoltaic) panels, triple-glazed windows, and individual sprinkler systems for safety.

Julie Porter, Executive Director of Development at Fairhive said of the project: "This innovative housing scheme is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Fairhive, Buckinghamshire Council and Homes England, in addressing homelessness and providing sustainable housing solutions. The project not only offers a place to live but also a pathway to a better, more secure future for its residents."

Ruth Ryan, Assistant Director - Affordable Housing Grant Provider Management at Homes England commented: "As the Government's housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting Buckinghamshire Council to achieve their ambitions. It's fantastic to see the launch of these new move-on homes and the positive impact the Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme is making. The development is a prime example of how we are working collaboratively with our partners, Buckinghamshire Council and Fairhive, to achieve our mission to build much needed new homes that people can be proud of."