East of England homelessness programme shortlisted for national award

Why it matters: The Hope at Home programme by Hopestead helps people build new lives after experiencing homelessness by providing essential furniture, appliances and flooring – giving them a real chance to create a stable home.

By the numbers:

• 418 people helped across East Anglia in the last year
• 65 Ipswich households supported since 2021
• 154 children among those supported
• 97% of participants maintained their tenancies

The details: The programme has been shortlisted in the 'We Care' category at the Travis Perkins Managed Services Better Together Awards 2025, with winners set to be announced on 13 March at Silverstone Circuit.

Lucy Parish, Hopestead's Head of Operations, said: "It's our mission to end homelessness, but we won't do that by just giving people a roof over their head. Many people we work with have few or no belongings of their own. Hope at Home helps them create a space that feels like home."

How it works: People moving into Flagship Group properties after experiencing homelessness can choose their preferred furniture, bedding and flooring styles, helping build a sense of ownership and pride.

The impact: The programme has shown significant results:

• 93% of participants reported feeling more positive and settled
• Half said they were better able to manage financially
• Tenancy success rates are three times higher than average for formerly homeless people

Worth noting: Hope at Home's success was previously recognised when it won Homelessness Project of the Year at the UK Housing Awards in November.

The bottom line: The initiative has grown to support hundreds of households, with Ipswich residents accounting for a significant portion of those helped. The programme's success shows how practical support, combined with dignity and choice, can help break the cycle of homelessness.