To commemorate the second anniversary of the Homewards programme, Prince William has sent a deeply appreciative letter to the local coalitions spearheading the UK-wide initiative to end homelessness.
The letter reflects both on the programme’s progress and on the collective determination needed to tackle one of society’s most persistent challenges.
Launched in June 2023 by The Prince of Wales through The Royal Foundation, Homewards is a long-term, evidence-based initiative designed to prevent and ultimately end homelessness. It began in six pilot locations: Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Lambeth, Newport, Sheffield, and Northern Ireland.
“As we mark the second anniversary of Homewards,” the Prince began, “I want to extend my sincere gratitude for what has been achieved since our launch.”
The letter recalls the foundations laid in the initiative’s first year, when six flagship locations across the UK were selected, bringing together hundreds of organisations from across public, private, and voluntary sectors. These groups formed Coalitions in each area, united in a shared mission: to prove that it is possible to make homelessness rare, brief, and unrepeated.
Prince William emphasised the strength of Homewards lies in the range of experience within its coalitions:
“Many of you have been on the front line of tackling homelessness for decades; for some, Homewards represents the first time you have engaged on this issue. Your experiences are what makes Homewards unique and powerful.”
He commended the ability of the initiative to harness collective capabilities, resources, and expertise, saying, “I am immensely proud to say that your collective effort has already allowed us to achieve lasting impact.”
Now in its second year, Homewards has transitioned from planning into active delivery. The Prince outlined key achievements, including first residents moving into homes, locally led initiatives to tackle homelessness and partnerships forged with Lloyds Banking Group and Hays to deliver housing and employment opportunities.
“Together, we are demonstrating tangible impact,” the Prince noted. “I know this is a mammoth challenge and change won’t come overnight, but over the past year we’ve started to shift the dial and there are now people who are no longer experiencing homelessness thanks to your tremendous efforts.”
Prince William was careful to stress that Homewards goes beyond simply building homes. It is, at its core, a movement for lasting systemic change.
“Creating long-term change is complex and unpredictable, but I am confident we can lead and inspire understanding, empathy and optimism that homelessness can be ended.”
The Prince applauded coalition members for their sharp focus on the most at-risk populations in each location and their commitment to preventing homelessness through innovative solutions. He described being “inspired by the motivation, creativity, and expertise that is embodied in each location.”
Looking forward, Prince William stressed that success will only come through continued partnership, “we know that achieving our goal will take a collective effort, but the power of partnership cannot be underestimated and we will continue to support your hard work and build momentum by bringing in new partners and resources.”
He concluded with a message of hope, reinforcing the notion that homelessness is not the unsolvable issue it is often portrayed to be:
“Success for Homewards means demonstrating that change is possible; that homelessness is not the insurmountable challenge it is too often perceived to be.”
