Housing scheme recognised with prestigious award

A housing scheme in Basildon supported by Peabody has won a national award.

Published: 22/11/2023

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Nevendon Place was named as Best Partnership – 0-100 homes – at the Inside Housing Development Awards, which recognise the teams, schemes and solutions that have made a positive impact in communities across the UK.

The award was won jointly by Basildon Council, Peabody, The Salvation Army, Hill Group, ECD Architects, Keegans and Homes England.

The scheme contains 16 self-contained supported flats designed to reduce homelessness in the town. It has 10 one-bedroom apartments managed by the council, and a further six one-bedroom pods known as 'Solohaus' units donated by the Hill Group. The pods are being managed by the Salvation Army's Malachi Housing scheme.

The purpose-built homes provide fully furnished, equipped, and safe living spaces, supporting single occupants to lead independent lives.

Peabody works with the Salvation Army and Basildon Council to offer all residents at Nevendon Place day-to-day support.

Dave Black, Director of Care and Support Commissioned Services for Peabody, said: “Nevendon Place is not just a roof over the heads of the people who live there – it’s somewhere safe where they can receive one-to-one support, gain confidence and build a brighter future.

“This housing scheme is a testament to the power of collaboration and, with homelessness at a record high, we will continue to work together to support those in need."

Councillor Andrew Schrader, Basildon Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Estate Renewal, said the award win was fantastic. He said: “It’s a brilliant scheme brought together by several partners to tackle rough sleeping in the borough - providing independent living and support to help people get their lives back on track.

“The project would not be possible without the support of our partners – including The Salvation Army and Peabody - and we are grateful for their support in bringing forward this life-changing facility.”

Captain Daniel Holland manages The Salvation Army’s homelessness services in the East of England. Daniel commented: “This project has shown that ending homelessness is about much more than providing accommodation; it is about creating a sense of community, belonging, and hope. Its success is down to brilliant partnership working, and a recognition of the importance of providing safe, supported environments in which people can recover from homelessness. Our team at The Salvation Army is delighted to be part of a scheme that is transforming the lives of our most vulnerable citizens in Basildon.”

Rory Lowings, SoloHaus Project Manager for The Hill Group, said: “This project, which included six SoloHaus homes donated by The Hill Group, is an exemplar of how the industry can work when all parties pull together to make something special happen.

“The modular SoloHaus homes will make warm and affordable homes for the residents that live in them. I am delighted that Basildon Council, The Salvation Army and others involved won, and Hill is proud to have been a part of this journey.”