This month, we wanted to share some uplifting news from across Launchpad.
Every day, our team works alongside people facing homelessness, helping to prevent housing crises before they happen and supporting clients to build the skills, confidence and stability they need to live independently.
Over recent months, we’ve seen some fantastic outcomes that we’d love to share with you.
Many of you may have spotted our recent social media posts celebrating a number of successful move-ons. Several residents have now taken the next step into their own homes, securing tenancies with Reading Borough Council and local housing associations after receiving tailored support from our supported housing team.
We’re especially pleased that three clients have recently moved into privately rented accommodation. In today’s challenging housing market, this is a significant achievement and demonstrates what can be possible when people are given the right support when they come to Launchpad.
We’ve also been celebrating some important personal successes. One client recently passed their driving theory test, while two others secured employment. These milestones represent more than qualifications or job offers; they are important steps towards greater independence, confidence and long-term stability.
Another client achieved a life-changing outcome after successfully appealing a decision about her Personal Independence Payment (PIP). With support from Launchpad staff, she attended a tribunal hearing and won her appeal, resulting in £9,000 in backdated payments. This will make a huge difference to her financial wellbeing and future prospects.
Over the past few months, we’ve welcomed 14 new clients into our accommodation, including four people who had previously been sleeping rough. Thanks to the dedication of our caretaking team, rooms are prepared quickly and maintained to a high standard, ensuring people can move into safe, comfortable accommodation when they need it most.
Over at NOVA, our women-only supported housing service, there has also been plenty of positive progress. One client, who had been eligible for PIP for several years but had struggled to complete an application due to the instability in her life, successfully secured an award with support from staff. With this additional income, she is now in a much stronger position to manage her finances and plan for the future.
NOVA recently hosted another successful sexual health drop-in session in partnership with the NHS sexual health outreach service. The women were able to access advice, screenings and contraception in a safe, familiar environment, helping to break down barriers to accessing healthcare.
We were also delighted to welcome representatives from Rahab, part of Reading-based charity The Mustard Tree. Rahab supports women involved in the sex industry to break free from cycles of abuse, poverty and addiction. Clients engaged positively with the visit and appreciated learning more about the specialist support available to them.
Each of these stories is a reminder of the resilience, determination and progress shown by the people we support every day.
(*we’ve used a stock photo for illustrative purposes)