Crisis UK’s Brent SHPS Refugee Housing and Integration Service took first place at the London Homelessness Awards, receiving £30,000 and a specially designed trophy at a ceremony held at St Martins in the Fields.
The service, launched in August 2023, supports refugees who are leaving Home Office accommodation following a positive asylum decision.
Without intervention, many face the risk of immediate homelessness.
Anita Silberbauer, director of Crisis Skylight Brent, said: “We’re thrilled to have our work with the Single Homeless Prevention Service recognised through this award.
“It is only through the dedicated work of our staff, partners and Brent Council that we are able to offer vital support including accessing housing, training and employment, to help refugees rebuild their lives here in the UK.
“Everyone should have a safe home, regardless of where they were born and we’re proud to continue our work with the council to ensure that people can build their lives away from homelessness for good.”
The service helps refugees secure long-term housing and offers personalised support with training, employment, and wellbeing.
Based at Crisis’ Skylight centre in Brent, it draws on strong partnerships with supported housing providers and the private rented sector.
Ian Brady, who chaired the judging panel for the London Homelessness Awards, said: “Congratulations to Crisis, and to all six shortlisted projects.
“Once again, we have an extremely high-quality winners in this year’s award.
“Here is real evidence of the endless ingenuity and determination of the organisations working with people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
“We are proud to reward and broadcast their successes.”
Second place went to the London Borough of Hackney’s Benefits and Homeless Prevention Service Complex Needs Team, which received £20,000.
Third place was awarded to The Outside Project – LGBTIQ+ Centre and Trans+ Winter Night Shelter, which received £10,000.
Three additional projects were particularly commended: The Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Temporary Accommodation Reduction Programme, Thames Reach Resettlement Support Team, and Haringey Migrant Support Centre Migrant Homelessness Response.
