We’re pleased to share we’d received a significant funding boost from the Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund. This substantial financial support will go towards our supported accommodation for people experiencing homelessness in Cambridge and our mission to support and empower those who are homeless or vulnerable to homelessness and to make a positive difference to the quality of their lives.

The Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund – which is UK Government funding delivered by the National Lottery Community Fund – recognises the vital role of frontline organisations, like Cambridge Cyrenians, play in supporting communities in England under severe pressure because of the increased cost of living.

This support couldn’t have come at a more critical time. The demand for our services has been on the rise, with 240 referrals for accommodation in the 2022-2023 period alone – that’s a 9% increase from the previous year.

At the same time, the cost of utilities and maintenance for our 21 houses presents an ongoing challenge. Despite providing accommodation in small, shared houses, we found ourselves with less protection against the rising energy costs compared to other households.

The generous grant of £41,390 from the Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund has directly contributed towards Cambridge Cyrenians’ continued provision of a third of the supported accommodation available in the city for people experiencing homelessness. Importantly, it ensures that the burden of covering the cost of rising rents and utilities will not be passed down to residents who are already under pressure due to low incomes or dependence on statutory benefits.

The funding has also helped to cover essential salary costs for Cambridge Cyrenians’ team of Project Workers. Project Workers provide valuable financial and housing advice to residents, ensuring they are accessing the benefits to which they are entitled, helping them to budget, and supporting their transition into secure, long-term housing.

Expressing his gratitude for this vital support, James Martin, Director at Cambridge Cyrenians, said: “We’re hugely grateful for the funding from the Community Cost of Living Fund. This vital support will allow us to continue providing essential services to our residents and help them find a way out of homelessness. With this funding, we can continue to provide not just accommodation but hope and support to those who need it most. The dedication of our team, coupled with the generosity of the National Lottery Community Fund and UK Government through the Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund, enables us to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing the harsh realities of homelessness.”

More information about the Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund.