Boaz report on refugee homelessness prevention

Meaningful housing solutions are possible through regional place-based approaches

A new report published by Boaz Trust reveals the findings of a one-year pilot project (funded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority) to reduce homelessness in Greater Manchester among people recently granted refugee status.

The report, From surviving to thriving: Preventing homelessness in Greater Manchester among people recently granted refugee status, is based on research with individuals who experienced or were at risk of homelessness in Greater Manchester, as well as the wider learnings and reflections of the project team.

Detailing the project’s success in securing private rented accommodation for more than 90 individuals with refugee status in Bolton, Bury, Manchester and Oldham, the report also includes a set of local, regional and national recommendations based upon the experiences and challenges identified by those interviewed for the research. 

Recommendations include: 

• a permanent extension of the move-on period to 56 days;
• the improvement and standardisation of homelessness assessments;
• an expansion of trauma-informed support models;
• a standardisation of deposits and advance payment policies and practices across Greater Manchester local authorities;
• parity of financial support for individuals with refugee status as others leaving institution care.

In the midst of a national housing crisis, there are clearly no easy answers. However, this report shows that regional place-based responses can help to meet very specific housing challenges that councils are facing. With the right kind of investment - in the broadest sense of the word - homelessness among people newly granted refugee status can be addressed and meaningful housing solutions can be found.

Read the report and policy briefing