The Harbour Project fosters a community of hope

Now marking six months since its first resident walked through its doors, The Harbour Project has made significant strides in supporting residents and building a thriving community of hope, care and progress. Located at our base in Canning Town, The Harbour Project is more than just a place to stay; it’s a vital stepping stone for individuals who have faced long-term homelessness and housing insecurity.

What is The Harbour Project?

At its core, The Harbour Project provides accommodation and support to people experiencing homelessness across London. It follows the Housing First model but with a unique twist. Unlike traditional Housing First services, which focus on individual units, The Harbour Project creates a shared living environment where residents have their own flats but also benefit from communal spaces, activities and on-site support.

Our innovative approach is designed for those able to live independently but who benefit from the support of others who have had similar life experiences. By living in a community, residents find strength in connection, reducing social isolation and loneliness – two major barriers for those who have experienced long-term homelessness.

The ultimate goal at The Harbour Project is to provide individuals with stability and guidance to transition from hostel living to independent, long-term accommodation by offering the tools they need to create sustainable futures, all while fostering a strong sense of community.

Support and resident engagement

A key aspect of The Harbour Project’s success is the holistic support we provide, with personalised support tailored to each resident’s unique needs across various areas including mental and physical health, education, and employment. By addressing all the factors that contribute to long-term stability, residents are offered the foundation for lasting change.

Weekly activities play an essential role in keeping residents engaged and connected. From admin-together sessions that help with tasks like handling paperwork and updating CVs, to weekly brunches and agency drop-ins, there’s always something happening. These activities foster a sense of belonging and empower residents to take control of their lives. Residents are also encouraged to shape the activities and services offered at The Harbour Project; this collaborative approach strengthens the sense of ownership and community.

Residents also take an active role in the wider community. Resident O has begun volunteering at Your Place’s soup kitchen, and residents L and O have formed a strong friendship, supporting one another as they navigate their journeys. These acts of peer support show how powerful it can be to live in a community that genuinely cares. Resident N recently bought flowers for the staff as a thank you for their unwavering support. These small but meaningful acts demonstrate how the community at The Harbour Project is rooted in mutual care and support.

Transformation through support

The impact of The Harbour Project is seen most clearly in the lives of residents like Naz. After facing a series of personal challenges that led to homelessness, Naz found a new sense of hope at Your Place. “Since I walked in the door at Your Place, I’ve only experienced kindness. This is the family I had always hoped for – people who have your back no matter what and want you to succeed.” With the support of his keyworker and the community, Naz has rebuilt his health, discovered a passion for gardening and photography, and regained hope for the future.

As The Harbour Project continues to grow, its impact will only deepen. Its success proves that community-focused, supportive housing can be a transformative tool in ending homelessness. We are incredibly proud of the progress made so far and look forward to supporting even more individuals on their journey to independence and stability.