OUR STORY
Hackney social entrepreneur Peter Merrifield conceived Homes When It
Matters (HOMESWIM) through his pioneering leadership of Support When It Matters
(SWIM), which he set up in 2019 to support London’s marginalised communities.
Recognising the need for dedicated supportive housing, HOMESWIM complements SWIM's psychosocial interventions.
SUPPORTIVE ACCOMMODATION
HOMESWIM focuses on creating decent, supportive homes, collaborating with various stakeholders to meet the needs of marginalised communities.
Local authorities all over the UK provide temporary accommodation (TA) for those experiencing homelessness, but this ‘one size fits all’ housing is often in B&Bs, hostels and HMOs often lacking the necessary support for vulnerable individuals with complex needs. Supported accommodation (SA) offers additional services to address issues like mental health, substance misuse, and criminal justice involvement, promoting recovery and stability. The shortage of both TA and SA is critical, with many on waiting lists and some facing tragic outcomes due to inadequate support.
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DEVELOPMENTS
HOMESWIM’s 2 Furrow Lane project in Hackney exemplifies our commitment to
addressing the shortage of supportive housing. This development will provide 16
new-build apartments for individuals with complex needs, particularly from African, Caribbean, and Dual Heritage backgrounds. Located near Homerton Hospital, the project involves innovative financing and collaboration with Hackney Council and other stakeholders.
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Expected to complete by Summer/Autumn 2026, it aims to deliver high-quality, supportive housing that aligns with local policies and addresses the acute need for such accommodation in Hackney.
HOMESWIM constantly strives to:
BE AN ENABLER
by taking a culturally informed approach to providing what people need
to achieve self-sufficiency and realise their full potential.
BE A CATALYST
by leading efforts to combat homelessness, to influence positive
outcomes, and to inspire others to take action.
BE AN INNOVATOR
by pioneering new approaches to supported housing alongside
private-sector landowners, local authorities, statutory services and VCSEs.
CONTACT US
VISIT US
Homes When It Matters CIC
The Adiaha Antigha Centre,
24-30 Dalston Lane, Hackney, E8 3AZ
Email: info@homeswhenitmatters.com
Tel: 0203 573 0243
LET'S CONNECT