This week, Hope at Home commemorates a significant milestone, celebrating its eighth anniversary of delivering safety, dignity, and stability to survivors of modern slavery throughout the United Kingdom. Founded in the West Midlands with a straightforward yet profound vision—that a secure home serves as the essential bedrock for recovery after exploitation—the charity has evolved from hosting its inaugural guest, Sarah*, into a nationwide organisation. It now aids survivors through a multifaceted approach including hosting programmes, comprehensive wellbeing support, and an emerging supported housing pilot scheme.
A Foundation of Safety and Recovery
Over the past eight years, Hope at Home has achieved remarkable outcomes in its mission to support survivors. The charity has provided more than 14,000 nights of safe accommodation, which equates to over 39 years of secure sleep for individuals escaping exploitation. Additionally, it has facilitated 101 hosting placements, assisting 97 distinct guests, and has trained 158 volunteer hosts to offer safe and supportive environments. Beyond accommodation, the charity extends vital support such as counselling sessions, travel assistance, gym access, practical advice, and financial aid to help survivors rebuild their independence and confidence.
Personalised Support and Life-Changing Impact
Each hosting placement at Hope at Home is meticulously matched and time-limited, with clear boundaries and continuous support for both guests and hosts. This structured approach ensures survivors receive a stable environment where they can rest, access essential services, establish routines, and take proactive steps toward independent living, such as securing employment.
One poignant example is Dodzi*, who arrived at Hope at Home after escaping exploitation and facing the imminent threat of street homelessness. Referred to the charity and matched with a trained volunteer host, Dodzi found a sanctuary where he could sleep safely, attend counselling, manage appointments, engage in local volunteering, and gradually rebuild his confidence and daily routine. With the stability afforded by a safe home, he later transitioned into independent accommodation, marking a crucial step in his journey toward reclaiming his life.
Reflecting on his experience, Dodzi shared, "My whole experience [with Hope at Home] was fantastic. I had a home that felt like a home rather than an institution." This sentiment underscores the charity’s core philosophy of fostering genuine, homely environments for recovery.
Addressing Critical Needs in the Sector
From its humble beginnings with a single guest to its current status as a national entity, Hope at Home’s journey highlights a growing sector-wide recognition that safe accommodation is indispensable for the recovery of modern slavery survivors. Many individuals face homelessness after leaving exploitative situations, despite enduring severe trauma, and often encounter a hostile system that fails to provide adequate protection.
Expanding Horizons for the Future
Looking forward, Hope at Home is broadening its impact through a supported housing pilot, enabling the charity to offer additional safe homes and address the rising demand for accommodation among survivors across the UK. As it marks its eighth anniversary, the charity remains steadfastly focused on future goals: expanding capacity, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring more survivors have access to places that feel like true homes—not institutions—echoing Dodzi’s heartfelt words.
Note: Names and specific details have been altered to protect the privacy and safety of individuals involved.
