P3 Bucks prevents 257 people becoming homeless in first year
P3’s Buckinghamshire Housing Support Service has prevented 257 people from becoming homeless in its first year of operation.
The service, commissioned by Buckinghamshire County Council to help people build the independent living skills needed to stay in their homes, is celebrating its first anniversary this month, since launching in July 2018.
During this time, P3 has worked alongside 422 people to address any obstacles preventing them from accessing or sustaining accommodation, whether that’s mental ill-health, managing bills and finances, or simply finding the confidence to make lasting changes in their lives.
James*, who was supported by Support Worker Lizzie Hickish, said:
“Things got to the point where I wasn’t looking after myself, and I was actually suicidal. I was going to be evicted from my property. Lizzie guided me through the things I needed to get myself back to living capably again. Things like Universal Credit she would go through step by step, and she’d be there while I made the phone call so I knew exactly what I needed to do and how I was going to do it.”
Operations Manager Fiona Hall said:
“P3 are thrilled to be celebrating their first anniversary in Buckinghamshire. Our priority is to prevent homelessness, but we also deliver a holistic support package, and have also supported people to access more appropriate accommodation, including those fleeing domestic abuse. Year Two is going to be even better, as we are now able to offer more flexibility, and improve the overall experience for the people we work alongside.”
Based in Aylesbury and High Wycombe, the team works with people in their homes and out in communities across the county, running regular drop-in advice sessions in locations like Chesham Job Centre and Iver Heath Community Hub.
The service is looking to reach even more people this year so if you would like to know more about joining the team or think that the service could benefit you, please contact Fiona.Hall@p3charity.org, call 0808 164 1810, or go to www.p3charity.org/bucks.
READ MORE: Derek talks about P3 Bucks supported him after a serious medical diagnosis: www.p3charity.org/stories/dereks-story
