Private landlords help house 122 homeless people

Private landlords have helped make a city’s homeless housing scheme a success by providing homes for 122 people.

This is the same council which unveiled a £714,000 funding boost three months ago to increase scrutiny of ‘rogue’ landlords and strengthen private sector housing enforcement under the Renters’ Rights Act.

One participating landlord in the scheme now houses eight people as part of Wolverhampton’s Winter Pressures Fund 12-month pilot.

It is run by the Good Shepherd charity and City of Wolverhampton Council and has now helped 99 people move out of homelessness and prevented another 23 from becoming homeless.

Making a difference

Mrs Matharu is the private landlord who housed eight people, said: “I’ve been working with Good Shepherd for some time now, and their support makes a real difference.

“With housing people who have experienced multiple disadvantages, there can be challenges, but I always felt informed and supported.”

She added: “The team works closely with both landlords and partners to make sure the right help is in place.

“I’m pleased the project has been able to support so many people out of homelessness, and I’m proud to be part of that.”

Work with private landlords

The people who have been supported were placed in private rented homes or other long-term accommodation, with financial help available for deposits and rent in advance.

The project works with private landlords to find homes for people who may otherwise struggle to secure a tenancy.

Support continues after they move in, with staff helping tenants manage their accommodation and reduce the risk of becoming homeless again.

Good Shepherd also works with P3 Charity, The Haven and Wolverhampton Homes to provide support tailored to each person’s circumstances.

Landlords helping rebuild lives

Councillor Steve Evans, the council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, said: “Supporting our most vulnerable residents is a key priority in the city and I am very proud that we have been able to work with the Good Shepherd to provide timely, practical support to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“This partnership approach is helping to change lives – from securing safe accommodation to offering tailored support for those with more complex needs.

“Together, we are making a meaningful difference and helping to ensure that those who need help most are not left behind.”

Rich O’Leary, the homeless prevention team leader at Good Shepherd, said: “This project shows what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared goal.

“Supporting people into accommodation is just one part of the journey, we also provide the ongoing support people need to sustain their tenancies and rebuild their lives.”

Funding has been secured to continue the project during 2026 and 2027 when it will be called the Move on and Prevention Service.