Transforming Lives: Supported Shared Housing for Homeless Individuals in Sheffield

Choice Housing Trust (CHT) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing safe, supported shared housing in Sheffield for single people experiencing homelessness. Many of those we assist also face additional challenges such as mental health issues, drug or alcohol dependency, learning difficulties, or fleeing domestic violence/abuse, and our mission is to offer not only a roof over their heads but also the support they need to rebuild their lives.

Our Mission

At CHT, we believe that everyone deserves a safe and stable place to call home. Our mission is to provide holistic support that addresses the complex needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, helping them to transition from the streets to secure, supported living environments. By offering comprehensive support services alongside housing, we aim to empower our residents to regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

The Need

Sheffield has seen a significant increase in homelessness over recent years, exacerbated by the ongoing housing crisis and economic challenges. Single individuals, particularly those with mental health issues, are among the most vulnerable, and the least likely to qualify for social housing. Without stable housing and appropriate support, they face enormous barriers to achieving stability and improving their wellbeing.

Our Solution

Our dispersed supported shared housing model provides a solution:

Our accommodation includes:

• Own private (lockable) room in a shared house/flat, with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities.

• Shared use of kitchen facilities, including cooker, washing machine, fridge freezer, microwave.

• All utility bills included (except TV licence).

• Designated kitchen cupboard space.

• Unlimited full fibre Wi-Fi broadband.

• High security door locks, and reinforced bedroom fire doors and frames.

• Residents are provided with a free SIM card for their mobile phone.

• Most bathrooms have an over-bath shower, or separate shower.

• Weekly cleaning of communal areas, and regular garden maintenance.

• Bedrooms are fully kitted out with drawers (and/or other storage space), and residents are provided with bedding, towels, and complimentary toiletries.

• A welcome food parcel can be provided to new residents, if required.

• A designated experienced Support Worker is allocated to each resident.

• Gas central heating and hot water provided 24 hours a day.

• Weekly property safety checks and prompt repairs.

• CCTV at some properties for added safety and security.

• Individually tailored support plan to meet the resident’s needs and aspirations.

The rent is paid via Housing Benefit and the individual pays a portion of the service charge (bills, not eligible for Housing Benefit).

How You Can Help

We are seeking to raise £10,000 to expand our supported shared housing programme. Your contributions will directly fund:

• Housing Units: Securing additional properties to house more individuals in need.

• Support Services: Enhancing our support programmes, including mental health services and life skills workshops.

• Operational Costs: Covering essential operational costs to ensure the sustainability of our services.

Impact

Your donation will have a profound impact:

• Provide Safe Housing: £10,000 raised could secure a new property, providing safe and welcoming accommodation for 4 individuals.

• Enhance Support Services: £5,000 could fund a Support Worker to provide extra support to a resident at a time of distress, offering critical support when it is needed.

• Build Community: £2,000 could support community-building activities, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support among residents.

Sponsor a resident: £500 can help to fund 12 months of personal support that is vital for a resident for stabilise and move toward independence.

Testimonials

"Thought I would send you this card to say thank you for the help and support I received during my time of need” - Mark, former resident

"It seemed like a long journey for me and I have learned along the way, I hope I never have to experience homelessness again in my life. All the best for the future and thanks to all at Choice Housing” - Richard, former resident

Join Us in Making a Difference

Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of those who are some of the most vulnerable in our community. Your support is not just a donation; it's an investment in the future of individuals who deserve a chance to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.