Warrington-based Your Housing Group recently brought together current and former residents to celebrate 18 years of its Verve Place foyer.
Verve Place is one of four foyers operated by Your Housing Group (YHG) and is home to young people aged 16 to 25 who are at risk of homelessness.
For many residents, Verve Place has been more than just a place to stay. Since opening its doors in 2008, Verve Place has supported hundreds of young people to build brighter futures through safe accommodation, tailored support and opportunities to develop the skills they need for independent living.
Over the past 18 years, 96% of young people have made a positive move on from Verve Place, while 83% have participated in education, employment or training.
To mark the occasion, YHG hosted a special birthday celebration attended by residents, former residents, local charity partners and others. The event featured a cake-cutting ceremony, resident testimonials, a pizza van, desserts, funfair stalls and other activities.
The day was an opportunity to celebrate the residents, past and present, who have helped make Verve Place the community it is today.
One of the most memorable moments came from hearing directly from residents about the difference Verve Place has made to their lives, highlighting the vital role supported housing continues to play in helping young people grow and achieve their potential.
Current resident Reece shared his experience of living at Verve Place: “I was living in various locations and sofa surfing where I could, and I had no stability. I used to take drugs and drink a lot and didn’t look after myself. Since living here for the last year, I feel like I have my stability back. I have gained support from staff and outside agencies to become sober and become the best version of myself.”
Lorraine Donnelly, Chief Operating Officer at Your Housing Group, said: “For 18 years, Verve Place has provided more than just a roof over someone’s head. It has offered stability, opportunity and hope to hundreds of young people at a time when they needed it most. Celebrating this milestone was a chance to reflect on the incredible achievements of our residents and recognise the dedication of colleagues and partners who help make those successes possible.”
The day was a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of supported housing and the importance of providing people with a safe place to call home.
