Hewitsons helps the homeless

Hewitsons managing partner Colin Jones last week visited an initiative the firm is supporting which will provide micro-homes for homeless people in Cambridge.

Allia modular housing for homeless people in Cambridge

One of the first of their kind in the UK, it is hoped the 25-square-metre self-contained units will help end the cycle of homelessness, which is a growing issue in the city.

Created by Allia Future Business Centre, constructed by social enterprise New Meaning and managed by homelessness charity Jimmy’s, the five homes will be for those experiencing homelessness and a sixth unit will be for a volunteer acting as a warden.

The homes are capable of being relocated to take advantage of temporary sites, with the first located in east Cambridge.

The homes were due to be available earlier in the year, when Hewitsons committed to support the initiative, but progress on the project was pushed back due to the current pandemic.

Colin said: “Last year, we committed to supporting this great initiative, which aims to create real opportunities for people who are living on the streets, helping them to turn their lives around. It is great to see it now coming to fruition.

“Supporting this initiative is just one of many ways in which the firm gives back to the local community and we are delighted to be involved in such a worthy project, which is the first of its kind in Cambridge.”

Martin Clark, Allia group director of impact, said “We’re excited to finally launch these homes, and hope they will make a real difference to people’s lives. I’m deeply grateful to all those who have given funds and free professional help to bring this vision to life, to the church for lending their land, and to the project partners for their tireless work.

“We hope this will be the start of more such innovative projects until there is enough housing for all who need it.”



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