Watch our short videos to see our residents stories of how supported housing has helped them:
This Supported Housing Week, we're celebrating the life-changing impact of supported housing and the difference it makes to people across our communities.
Led by the National Housing Federation, the week highlights how supported housing helps people live independently, rebuild their confidence and access the support they need to thrive. It also shines a light on the growing need for supported housing services across the country.
At MSV, supported housing takes many forms, from helping young people prepare for living independently, supporting people who have experienced homelessness, and providing specialist homes for older people. This week, we're sharing three stories that demonstrate why supported housing matters.
Helping Young People Build Independent Futures
For young people facing homelessness, family breakdown or other difficult circumstances, having a safe place to live can be transformational.
MSV's Foyers provide supported accommodation for young people aged 16 to 25, offering not only a home but also support to help residents develop life skills, access education and employment opportunities, manage their finances and prepare for independent living.
Many young people arrive at the Foyer feeling uncertain about the future. Through the support of their dedicated support workers, they gain confidence, independence and the tools they need to move forward.
Blackburn-with-Darwen Foyer resident Aaron described the impact the Foyer had on his life:
“I’d abandoned every hope, I didn’t want no - one helping me, then the Foyer said I could live there and I’ve got a second chance.”
The Lodge resident, Debbie, said: “This place has given people freedom, help, support to be able to grow into the person they want to be”
Blackburn-with-Darwen foyer resident Abbey Jane said: “ My support worker helped me get out of the flat, do sessions. At first I wouldn’t leave my flat, I wouldn’t engage and cook with people and now it’s like I’m so outgoing, I never knew I could be like that.”
Janet's Story: A Fresh Start in Fallowfield
This year, MSV completed a new supported housing scheme in Fallowfield, creating eight fully furnished temporary homes for women who have previously experienced homelessness.
The scheme is particularly close to our hearts. As demand for supported housing continues to grow, developments like this provide safe, secure homes alongside the support residents may need to rebuild their lives and regain their independence.
One of the residents, Janet, has shared her story about the difference the home has made to her health.
“Before “I moved to this place I was not feeling good, I was sick every day - there was no kitchen. But here I breathe good air, I cook what I want and I feel very very very good here.”
For Janet, having a place to call home has provided more than just accommodation. It has given her the opportunity to focus on her wellbeing, rebuild her confidence and begin a new chapter in her life.
Championing Later Living in Chorlton
Supported housing also plays an important role in helping older people remain independent, connected and active within their communities.
Recently, Councillor Gavin White joined Charlie Norman, Chief Executive of MSV at our brand-new Later Living scheme on the former Chorlton Baths site to discuss the importance of providing high-quality homes for older people.
This beautiful development has transformed a historic local site into a modern community where residents can enjoy independent living in homes designed to meet their changing needs.
Speaking at the scheme, both highlighted the growing importance of specialist and supported housing as Manchester's population changes and demand for suitable homes continues to increase.
The development demonstrates how thoughtful housing design can help people maintain their independence, reduce isolation and continue living fulfilling lives within their local community.
More Than a Home
Whether it's helping a young person take steps towards independence, supporting people to rebuild their lives after homelessness, or providing high-quality homes where older people can thrive, supported housing changes lives every day.
As Supported Housing Week highlights, supported housing is far more than bricks and mortar. It provides safety, stability, opportunity and hope for people at some of the most important moments in their lives.
MSV is proud to support residents at every stage of life and to continue investing in homes and services that help people thrive.
Find out more about the campaign here
#SupportedHousing Week
