A new scheme for young people in partnership with New Horizon Youth Centre

26/11/2020

In our second partnership with New Horizon Youth Centre, we've have launched Project 62, a scheme for formerly homeless young people in Barnet. At Project 62, there are five one-bedroom flats for young people transitioning from supported housing to semi-independent living.

 
To minimise the extra costs often involved when moving, the homes are fully furnished along with kitchen utensils and bedding. "We made sure to cover all bases so that all our new residents can just turn up on the day with their belongings and move in", said our Assistant Director of Care and Support Brian Willmore.

As part of the two-year offer, residents are provided with a quarterly cleaning bundle and are responsible for cleaning their flats and communal areas. This not only reduces service charges, but allows them to learn additional life skills which prepare them for fully independent living.

To help residents sustain and make the most out of their stay, Project 62 has a dedicated Support Worker from New Horizon who works alongside each resident for the duration of their tenancy. New Horizon also subsidise bills to make it even more affordable to live at Project 62 and provide a resettlement service to help young people move on into independence after their time at Project 62.


The kitchen and bedroom in one of our Project 62 homes.

Renee, one of the new residents at Project 62, described it as a miracle. She said “I was homeless and often squatting before, but Origin and New Horizon have given me the opportunity to have my own space and a roof over my head. Especially during the current situation with COVID-19, it’s been very difficult finding a place of my own so this has been such a huge relief.”

Our Chief Executive Carol Carter applauded the hard work of everyone involved, saying “I’m really proud of all the work that has gone into opening Project 62 during the pandemic. It’s so important for young people to have a comfortable place to call home, especially during this incredibly challenging year. I’m delighted that we have been able to provide this through our partnership with New Horizon, and really look forward to supporting more young people as the project develops.”

Phil Kerry, New Horizon's Chief Executive highlighted the impact that Project 62 will have, saying “New Horizon has been working tirelessly for 50 years to give young Londoner’s potential a home. The fallout of coronavirus has hit young people especially hard and there’s an enormous need for safe and suitable housing. Our partnership with Origin has been invaluable and we have no doubt that Project 62 will play a transformative part in getting these young people the lives they deserve.”