Founded in 2001, Rentstart began as Elmbridge Rentstart with a simple mission: to help local people experiencing homelessness overcome the barriers that prevented them from accessing the private rented sector.

Twenty-five years later, that principle remains at the heart of the charity, but the service has grown considerably. From deposit guarantees and housing advice, Rentstart has developed into a specialist homelessness-prevention organisation providing housing access, tenancy support and practical help to people facing homelessness and housing insecurity.

Last year Rentstart helped to house 83 more people, intervened to prevent 109 evictions and took 708 new eniquiries from local people who were in vulnerable housing positions, or experiencing homelessness.

There has been significant growth in demand for our services, and more people than ever are sleeping rough in our commuinity.

Wre are launching this new fundraising campaign to mark our anniversary: £25 for 25. If you feel that you could give £25 to help us continue to do the work we have been doing for the last quarter of a century, please donate on this page.

Throughout the 25 year journey, one thing has remained constant: Rentstart believes that a safe, secure home provides the foundation from which people can begin to rebuild their lives.