The Prince of Wales says he believes that homelessness can be eradicated with the development of innovative ways of tackling the issues involved.
Prince William spoke out as he began a two day tour of the UK in which he’ll visit six areas chosen to pilot the Homewards scheme, his new initiative focused on helping those experiencing homelessness.
At the first launch event, in Lambeth, the heir to the throne said ”In a modern and progressive society, everyone should have a safe and secure home, be treated with dignity and given the support they need. Through Homewards, I want to make this a reality and over the next five years, give people across the UK hope that homelessness can be prevented when we collaborate.”
Homewards brings together homelessness organisations and charities to work on action plans to make more accommodation available, easily and affordably and to ensure those who need it are known about and supported.
It will start in six areas which will receive funding of £500,000 each to develop models that can be used across the UK.
The Prince of Wales officially launched the project in Lambeth where he spent time at the Mosaic Clubhouse which supports people living with mental health issues.
He then moved on to the second area chosen for Homewards. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole in Dorset will also be part of the initiative. There, Prince William visited Faithworks, a charity helping people break the cycle of unemployment.
The final stop on day one was Newport in Wales where the prince spent time with pupils from Maindee Primary to hear how schools can have a role in ending homelessness.
Prince William continues his launch of Homewards on June 27th 2023.