Prince William has shared an optimistic message on the second anniversary of his Homewards programme, emphasizing the initiative’s progress in tackling homelessness across the UK. The future King, 43, has made the issue a personal and long-term focus, urging campaigners to “keep going” as they work to shift the needle on this challenging issue.
In a letter marking the anniversary, Prince William expressed gratitude to the local coalitions working on Homewards, praising their efforts in helping those who are no longer experiencing homelessness. He highlighted the programme’s transition into “delivery mode” and outlined his confidence that it would lead to meaningful, long-term change.
“Thanks to your tremendous efforts, there are now people who are no longer experiencing homelessness,” Prince William said, underscoring the real impact the initiative is having in its flagship locations: Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole, Lambeth, Newport, Northern Ireland, and Sheffield.
A key development in the programme’s second year has been the first residents moving into homes through the Innovative Housing Project in Sheffield. Prince William also plans to visit a local school where the new “Upstream” early intervention model is being implemented. This model, inspired by the Australian Geelong Project, aims to identify young people at risk of homelessness and provide early support, having already shown significant success in reducing youth homelessness.
The Homewards programme, which brings together over 100 initiatives to combat homelessness, includes efforts such as creating new homes, offering financial support, and reframing public perceptions about homelessness. It also emphasizes employment opportunities and fostering community collaboration to make lasting changes.
William has long been personally connected to this cause, inspired by his childhood visits to homeless shelters with his late mother, Princess Diana. His involvement in Homewards reflects his desire to use his platform to create lasting change.
Polly Neate, former CEO of Shelter and Women’s Aid, praised William’s dedication to reshaping public attitudes toward homelessness. She emphasized the importance of his leadership in reframing homelessness as a preventable issue, rather than an insurmountable challenge.
With the programme continuing into its third year, Prince William remains optimistic that Homewards can lead to a future where homelessness is rare, brief, and non-recurring.
