A major boost for housing and homelessness relief has arrived as BHT Sussex, a prominent charity in Brighton, has been awarded almost £500,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund. The funding is designated to extend the charity’s “Accommodation for Work” programme, providing crucial support to those without stable housing while they seek employment.
The substantial grant of £486,697 will enable BHT Sussex to continue the programme for an additional five years. This initiative offers temporary shared accommodation and targeted assistance to job seekers in Brighton who are currently homeless.
The charity has expressed its appreciation for the funding, noting its pivotal role in sustaining essential services. According to a representative from BHT Sussex, the grant from the National Lottery Community Fund, which allocates funds raised by National Lottery players to worthy causes, is vital for the continuation of this crucial local service.
The charity emphasised the programme’s significant impact over the past year. The “Accommodation for Work” project assisted 52 individuals, with 98 per cent participating in work and learning activities. Additionally, two-thirds of these participants secured paid employment. The success stories of those who have benefited from the programme were instrumental in securing the grant, illustrating the programme’s effectiveness.
One individual who benefitted from the programme highlighted the transformation it brought to their life. Previously, they had been sleeping in a kitchen, with no improvement in their circumstances. Within three months of joining the programme, they had acquired new skills and achieved their first-ever certificate. They expressed their disbelief and pride in passing the course, which marked a significant milestone in their personal development.
The project manager at BHT Sussex conveyed their excitement about the funding, stating that it will greatly enhance their ability to support individuals who are both working and seeking employment but are currently facing homelessness. The continued support from the National Lottery is highly valued, and the charity looks forward to helping more residents achieve their employment and learning goals, ultimately moving beyond homelessness.
Established in 1968 as the Brighton Hostel, BHT Sussex has grown into a registered charity with a wide range of interconnected services aimed at addressing homelessness, poverty, addiction, and mental health issues. The organisation provides not only housing but also specialist support and legal advice on issues related to housing, immigration, and welfare benefits, serving the Sussex region.
BHT Sussex’s holistic approach is reflected in its diverse range of services, designed to address both immediate needs and long-term stability. By offering temporary accommodation and pathways to employment, the charity plays a crucial role in helping individuals rebuild their lives and achieve self-sufficiency. The continuation of the “Accommodation for Work” programme represents a significant advancement in these efforts, ensuring ongoing support for those in need.
The successful acquisition of this funding underscores the critical role of community support and collaborative efforts in combating homelessness. As BHT Sussex continues to broaden its impact, the experiences of those it has assisted serve as powerful reminders of the importance of such initiatives.
Looking to the future, BHT Sussex remains dedicated to its mission, with the new grant ensuring that it can extend its reach and impact. This funding not only highlights the value of the National Lottery Community Fund but also reinforces the ongoing need for support for charitable organisations that drive positive social change.
In summary, the near £500,000 lottery grant awarded to BHT Sussex marks a significant milestone in the fight against homelessness. By extending the “Accommodation for Work” programme, the charity is set to offer continued support and opportunities for those in need, paving the way for greater stability and independence. The funding highlights both the crucial role of community-funded initiatives and the enduring need for dedicated efforts in addressing social challenges.
