Partners come together to mark three years of Homewards in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

Homewards Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) brought together partners, local leaders, organisations and experts by experience at Canford School in Wimborne, Dorset, to mark three years of working together to prevent homelessness.

The event offered a moment to reflect on progress made so far, celebrate the impact of local partnerships and explore how Homewards BCP can continue to improve outcomes, particularly for young people at risk of homelessness.

The event took the form of an interactive exhibition, which showcased a range of initiatives happening across BCP including:

• The New Employment Opportunities Network (NEON), which connects employers, local business and frontline partners to create job opportunities for people who have experienced, or are at risk of, homelessness.

• Faithworks’ training and employment programmes, including its Barista initiative, which supports people to gain skills, confidence and open pathways into work

• Early intervention initiatives, such as @Home Project Housing Rights Worker pilot, delivered with Shelter, the 14+ Alternative Curriculum Pathway at Bournemouth & Poole College, and Upstream, an evidence-based model strengthening support for young people in schools

• The Professional Network for Children, Young People and Families, delivered in partnership with Community Action Network, which helps professionals share learning and strengthen support across the area

Students from The Bourne Academy also played an active role as they shared insights from the housing rights workshops that they’ve taken part in.

Guests heard from Strategic Steering Group Chair Cllr Kieron Wilson and member of the Homewards National Coproduction Partnership Sam, who reflected on the progress made over the past three years and the opportunities ahead.

Cllr Kieron Wilson, Chair of the Homewards Strategic Steering Group commented:

“I’m so proud of all the work that we’ve achieved over the last three years alongside Homewards, the council and our partners. It’s been a real team effort.”

Homewards BCP will continue to build on the momentum established over its first three years, strengthening partnerships and scaling successful initiatives that help prevent homelessness before it starts.