Over 120 people who were homeless or at immediate risk of homelessness have been supported into safe and stable accommodation through an innovative Wolverhampton project tackling housing need across the city.
The Winter Pressures Fund is a 12-month pilot project designed to tackle housing need in Wolverhampton by supporting people into the private rented sector (PRS) and other long-term accommodation.
Delivered by local charity Good Shepherd in partnership with City of Wolverhampton Council, the initiative has supported 122 individuals over the past year. Including 99 people housed from homelessness and a further 23 people prevented from becoming homeless into private rented accommodation.
Working in partnership with the local council and agencies including P3 Charity, The Haven, and Wolverhampton Homes, the project ensures that people receive tailored support when they need it most.
A key part of the project’s success has been its work with private landlords, creating sustainable housing opportunities for people who may otherwise struggle to access accommodation. One of those landlords, Mrs Matharu, currently provides homes for eight individuals supported through the project.
Pictured from left to right, Good Shepherd Senior Keyworker Tina Lane with Landlord Mrs Matharu.
Mrs Matharu, Private Landlord said:
“I’ve been working with Good Shepherd for some time now, and their support makes a real difference. With housing people who have experienced multiple disadvantages, there can be challenges, but I always felt informed and supported. The team works closely with both landlords and partners to make sure the right help is in place. I’m pleased the project has been able to support so many people out of homelessness, and I’m proud to be part of that.”
Councillor Steve Evans, City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing, said:
“Supporting our most vulnerable residents is a key priority in the city and I am very proud that we have been able to work with the Good Shepherd to provide timely, practical support to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
“This partnership approach is helping to change lives – from securing safe accommodation to offering tailored support for those with more complex needs. Together, we are making a meaningful difference and helping to ensure that those who need help most are not left behind.”
Pictured from left to right, Councillor Steve Evans, City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing and Rich O’Leary, Homeless Prevention Team Leader at Good Shepherd.
Rich O’Leary, Homeless Prevention Team Leader at Good Shepherd, said:
“This project shows what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared goal. Supporting people into accommodation is just one part of the journey, we also provide the ongoing support people need to sustain their tenancies and rebuild their lives. We’re proud to have supported 122 people across the city and to continue working with partners and landlords to make lasting change.”
Winter Pressured Fund provides financial assistance, including housing deposits and rent in advance, helping to remove barriers to accessing accommodation. Alongside this, the project supports people to sustain their tenancies and prevent future homelessness.
By helping people move into the private rented sector, the project also frees up beds in supported accommodation for spaces for those with higher support needs.
The success of the Winter Pressures Fund has secured funding for the next year, 2026-2027 for the continuation of the project under the new name of ‘Move on and Prevention Service’.