For five years, Destination:Home has been at the heart of the fight to end homelessness in Stoke-on-Trent – helping people not just find a place to live, but rebuild their lives.
Led by our homelessness specialists Concrete and delivered in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council and local organisations, the 24/7 service goes beyond housing.
It gives people the tools and support they need to overcome the challenges that lead to homelessness – from mental health and wellbeing to tenancy skills, training and employment.
Since its launch in 2020, Destination:Home has stood alongside thousands of people in crisis. In the past year alone, the service has received 1,500 referrals, supported 70 LGBTQ+ people through its dedicated Phoenix service and delivered floating support to 62 people, helping them stay in their homes and avoid homelessness.
The real impact is seen in the personal journeys of customers like Ellie (name changed to protect her identity), who came to Destination:Home for support.
After leaving an abusive relationship, Ellie spent time living on the streets before moving into Concrete’s 24/7 supported female accommodation scheme. She said: “When I first moved into the female scheme I felt scared. That’s because I was so used to being outdoors and for me, a tenancy was a real commitment.”
Six months on, her outlook has completely changed: “It’s the longest I’ve ever stayed somewhere, so I feel really proud. It’s a huge personal achievement for me and it feels good. My resilience is much stronger since being at the female scheme… Now I think about my future, rather than just the present.”
Honeycomb Group’s Head of Homelessness and Complex Needs, Steve Barkess, added: “It’s amazing to hear the impact that Destination:Home has had on people like Ellie, who now feels safe, supported and ready to look to the future. Stories like hers show exactly why this service matters. Destination:Home has proved what’s possible when organisations come together with one goal - to end homelessness in our city.
“Over the past five years, we’ve walked alongside thousands of people, helping them not just find a home but build a future. Behind every statistic is a person who’s been given the chance to start again and find a new chapter.
“Destination:Home has been a lifeline for so many, and while we’re proud of the progress made, we know the job isn’t finished. We’ll keep standing beside those who need us most, for as long as it takes.”
