The Prince of Wales’s Homewards initiative is set to launch a new housing project in Lambeth, south London, aimed at addressing homelessness by converting a property into 16 affordable flats for young people aged 18 to 25.

Planning proposals for this project have been approved by Lambeth Council, allowing construction to begin soon, with the goal of having residents move in by the end of 2026.

The development at 60 Sancroft Street in Lambeth is part of a broader strategy to tackle the urgent need for supported housing in the area.

To combat high rental costs in Lambeth, where 4,000 households are currently in temporary accommodation, rents for these homes will be tied to the young residents' income.

The selection criteria for applicants prioritize those already employed or actively pursuing employment, emphasizing the initiative's dual focus on housing and economic stability.

Seyi Obakin, Centrepoint’s chief executive, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to combat youth homelessness and praised the project's model.

Lambeth is one of six pilot locations in the five-year Homewards program, which began in June 2023 and includes other cities like Sheffield and Aberdeen.

Homewards has already seen success with previous projects, including one in Aberdeen and another in Sheffield, with a total of about 300 homes planned across all initiatives.

The project is supported by Lambeth Council's homelessness prevention team and local coalition partners, aiming for systemic change in the area.

Prince William's commitment to fighting homelessness is deeply rooted in the values instilled in him by his mother, Princess Diana, who encouraged empathy towards the unhoused.

In addition to housing projects, Homewards engages the community through creative initiatives, such as an art exhibition titled 'Homelessness: Reframed' at the Saatchi Gallery.

Former U.K. Prime Minister Gordon Brown commended Prince William for changing perceptions of homelessness and highlighting the potential of individuals experiencing it.