Big Help Project marks fourth year of commitment to providing stable housing for ex-offenders
22/05/2023
On their fourth year since the programme was born, Big Help Project’s commitment to providing access to stable housing options for those who are experiencing or facing homelessness ‘Fresh Start’, remains a consistent route for those experiencing significant challenges with their living circumstances or finances.
Where between 10-20% of people who leave the prison system each year becoming homeless, and 79% of landlords indicating that they inquire about criminal history on rental applications, Fresh Start is a necessary process for some. The programme, aptly named to reflect the organisation’s pledge to aid those often not prioritized by society, provides a pathway to safe housing, into one of Big Help’s own properties.
As evidence suggests, stable housing is a key factor in reducing a person’s likelihood to reoffend, with half of the prisoners released in England and Wales reportedly doing so within a year due to difficulties awaiting them upon their release. Big Help’s approach is to ensure that ex-offenders are provided with the opportunity to develop a strong foundation of their life after being released.
Since the program’s inception, 98% of all clients have required support for their mental health and well-being in some form. The Fresh Start program uses an individualised approach to client well-being and mental health, tailoring interventions to the individual’s needs