Praxis' housing project wins Homeless Link national award for innovation

On 2 July Praxis housing project won an award for the innovative and effective way it supports migrant families and women at risk of homelessness and destitution.

The project – run in collaboration with Commonweal Housing – was recognised by Homeless Link for its dedication to supporting people who have traditionally been seen as ‘difficult to house’.

What makes the project unique is its ability to help single women and families who, due to their immigration status, have no access to public welfare and support - this is a consequence of a default No Recourse to Public Funds condition that all too often is attached to people's leave to remain. For thousands, the direct consequences of NRPF are destitution and homelessness. Once residents move into Praxis' houses, they are supported by our housing team and immigration advisors, assisting them in settling in the community, resolving their immigration issues, lifting the NRPF condition and making sure that they are then able to access mainstream welfare and housing and move forward with their lives. Our residents have also got access to Praxis support and skill based groups. This holistic support model has been a key element in the success of this service.

At Praxis we are extremely pleased that our project has received this important recognition.

We would like to use this occasion to thank the Local Authorities that have recognised the value of our service, and have trusted us by referring their residents to this service; Commonweal Housing for being such a great partner; Trust for London, Esmee Fairbain, City Bridge and Big Society Capital, the social investors that have made this project possible in the first place, as well as OAK and Metropolitan Foundations for their support; and our residents, who have formed a wonderful community where new families and single women are welcome and supported to thrive.

Last, but not least, this award is a testament to Praxis’ staff members and to their dedication in supporting migrants at risk through our unique holistic support model.

Earlier this year, the project’s final evaluation report was released detailing how the project is run, the impact it has had and the potential for it to be replicated elsewhere.