Prince William's Homewards project delivers major win in London

Prince William’s bold plan to tackle homelessness is turning into real roofs over real heads.

As part of his five-year Homewards initiative, the Prince of Wales is backing the creation of 16 new homes for unhoused young people in Lambeth, south London. 

The project, now officially approved for development, will convert an existing building into apartments for 18- to 25-year-olds navigating the transition into independent living.

Through a partnership with the Duchy of Cornwall and long-time royal charity Centrepoint, the homes will offer affordable rent tied to income, easing the burden on young people already working or preparing for employment. 

Centrepoint will manage the residences as part of its Independent Living Programme.

“This project offers more than shelter, it offers young people the stepping stone they need to pursue their careers, build financial resilience, and transition out of homelessness for good,” said Centrepoint CEO Seyi Obakin.

With average private rent in Lambeth hovering around £2,400 (about $3,000 CAD) per month, the need for realistic housing options is critical. 

The Prince’s initiative aims to make homelessness “rare, brief, and unrepeated”, a goal he’s championed since launching Homewards in 2023.

Lambeth marks the third region getting new housing under the program, after Aberdeen and Sheffield. In Cornwall, the Duchy has also launched a separate housing effort in the town of Nansledan.

The new homes are expected to break ground soon at 60 Sancroft Street.  

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