The charity will deliver Swindon Next Step after receiving funding through the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Ending Homelessness in Communities Fund.
The programme will offer free weekly groups and courses to people who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, living in temporary or supported accommodation, or who have experienced homelessness in the past.
Threshold will work with Ipsum, Crosslight Advice, Adult Education Centre New College and Society Without Abuse to deliver the initiative.
Swindon Next Step aims to address some of the wider barriers that can make it difficult for people to leave homelessness behind and maintain an independent life.
Courses will cover practical skills including money management, employability and independent living.
Other sessions will focus on confidence and motivation, healthy relationships, stress and anxiety, mindfulness and meditation.
Digital music, arts and crafts, creative writing, a men’s group and outdoor activities will also be offered.
Threshold says the programme is designed to help people develop practical skills while establishing routines, making connections and improving their confidence, motivation and wellbeing.
Ben Harman, CEO of Threshold, said:
“We are very grateful to have been allocated this grant from the Ending Homelessness in Communities Fund which will open up access to timely, effective support for people across Swindon to gain stability and overcome barriers to independence.
“We are proud and excited to deliver Swindon Next Step in partnership with local organisations who have significant expertise and experience in tackling issues which keep people trapped in homelessness and supporting long-term positive change.”
Threshold has been supporting people affected by homelessness in Swindon for more than 50 years.
Its existing accommodation allows residents to stay for up to two years while support workers help them address challenges, work towards personal goals and prepare to manage their own tenancy.
Councillor Matty Courtliff, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, said:
“Swindon Next Step recognises the complex challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and provides a structured set of interventions designed to support them at every stage of their journey.
“This funding will make a real difference. I look forward to seeing Swindon Next Step being integrated into our new Community Hub model to better help those facing tough times.
“The partnership will enable better referrals and coordination of resources to prevent homelessness, improve wellbeing, reduce crisis demand and support individuals to build sustainable, independent lives.”
The funding forms part of the Government’s Ending Homelessness in Communities Fund, which has allocated more than £47 million to homelessness services across England.
The fund aims to increase community-based support, prevent and reduce rough sleeping, improve day services and help people live independently without returning to homelessness.
Swindon Next Step groups are open to anyone affected by homelessness in the town.
