Three million boost from national bank helps Two Saints provide accommodation for the homeless

A housing and specialist support provider for people experiencing homelessness across Hampshire has opened a new accommodation facility with the support of Lloyds Bank.

Two Saints, which is based in Fareham and also operates services across Berkshire and the Isle of Wight, has acquired, refurbished and launched Brent House in Havant.

The new 29-home facility for individuals and families will offer vital short-term support for people seeking permanent homes, as well as 24-hour care for those in need.

A kitchen in one of the family units at Brent House

Brent House includes both self-contained and studio units and is the only facility of its kind available in the area.

As part of the refurbishment of the three-floor building, which has taken five years to complete, Two Saints has introduced new communal areas, office space, modern kitchens and laundry areas.

The charitable organisation has also used part of the £3 million funding package from Lloyds Bank to purchase five new homes on the Isle of Wight.

The new houses in multiple occupation – where more than one household shares an amenity – mean that Two Saints’ portfolio of properties has increased to 80, allowing the organisation to support up to 800 people at any one time.

Two Saints was founded in 2001 following a merger between two church-based organisations: Society of St Dismas and St Petroc Housing Association.

The organisation now employs 350 people, offering a range of services for those experiencing homelessness including direct access hostels and resettlement flats. The team also delivers mental health support and ongoing assistance for people with high needs and a history of homelessness.

Janice Hughes, executive director of investment, assets and risk at Two Saints, said: “Experiencing homelessness is one of the most challenging things that a person can go through and, unfortunately, it’s happening to hundreds of people in Hampshire every year.
“We’re committed to doing all we can to prevent this and help those in need find the permanent accommodation that will help them rebuild their lives.

“Brent House is a significant project for Two Saints, with it being the first facility of its kind in the area. This means that hundreds more people have access to our 24/7 support.

“It was important to us to create a space that is secure and offers the on-site support for people looking for a permanent home, and the extensive refurbishment means Brent House does all this, and Lloyds Bank’s support has helped us achieve it.”

Andrew McKay, relationship director at Lloyds Bank, said: “Two Saints is an organisation with a clear and commendable purpose and the effort the team has put in to create Brent House is extraordinary.

“This is a major investment in the community, both financially to refurbish Brent House and in terms of time and support to give people the leg-up they may need to move into permanent accommodation.

“It’s been a pleasure to support Janice and the team, and we’re looking forward to being by their side as they continue to set an example for how we can make a difference in our communities.”

The support for Two Saints follows the recent announcement of Lloyds Banking Group’s partnership with homelessness charity Crisis, with the organisations forming a not-for-profit lettings agency designed to tackle affordable homes shortages.