Milton Keynes Homelessness Partnership (MKHP) is seeking expressions of interest from organisations to be involved in Phase One of its new programme ‘Pathways to Independence’.

Thanks to the support of the Milton Keynes Community Foundation (MKCF), MKHP is delighted to launch the development phase of this new programme. ‘Pathways to Independence’ will support individuals who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, on their personal development journey as they enhance existing or develop new skills and strategies enroute to finding and keeping a home.

We are particularly interested in hearing from your organisation if you offer services related to employment, education and skills, health and wellbeing, financial resilience, relationships, community cohesion, or enabling an individual to build their confidence and connections through community-based activities.

MKHP is a network of organisations who connect to prevent and end homelessness in MK. MKHP encourages and facilitates innovative ideas on how to end homelessness in MK with a focus on prevention rather than cure. Together with our Recognised Partners, we advocate a person-centred approach to all services for those that are homeless or are at risk of homelessness, from medical wellbeing through to better and truly affordable homes.

The journey out of homelessness is different for everyone. It is imperative that a person who is homeless, or at risk of homelessness, is properly supported. The need for individual, person-centred support to break the homelessness cycle is of paramount importance and ‘Pathways to Independence’ will help to address that.

‘Pathways to Independence” takes the learning from supported living and buddy systems amongst others, to help individuals build their unique personal development plan to reflect their goals and aspirations. It provides choice and opportunity encouraging the individual to take ownership of the steps they need to take. Through 1:1 support, navigation and co-ordination, individuals will be able to access services, rebuild confidence and connections, learn, or enhance skills and engage in day-to-day community life to help them achieve and keep a home of their own.

Jen Reid-Smith, Programmes Manager at Milton Keynes Homelessness Partnership, explains “Pathways to Independence will connect individuals with general and specialist organisations across MK who work with those at risk of, who are experiencing or who have previously experienced homelessness. Through 1:1 support, and coordination across organisations, we aim to ensure that individuals have the skills, tools, and experiences they need to believe in and achieve their goals.”

If your organisation offers services that you think could be part of this work, please contact Jen Reid-Smith via email (jen.reid-smith@mkhp.co.uk) or telephone (01908 382368).

This work has been supported by funding from MK Community Foundation.