Prince William’s Homewards program unveils its third major housing project in Lambeth, transforming a Duchy of Cornwall property into affordable homes for young adults aged 18–25.
Introduction:
As part of a groundbreaking effort to combat homelessness across the UK, Prince William’s Homewards initiative has launched its third Innovative Housing Project—this time in Lambeth, South London. The latest development transforms a property within the Duchy of Cornwall estate into 16 affordable housing units for young adults, marking a significant step as the program enters full operational mode.
A New Home for South London’s Youth
The Lambeth site will provide housing for individuals aged 18 to 25, with priority given to those who are already employed or actively working toward employment. This focus reflects Homewards’ holistic approach to tackling homelessness—not just by offering shelter, but by promoting economic independence and long-term stability.
The project is supported by Lambeth Council’s homelessness prevention team and local coalition partners, who are working collaboratively to implement systemic change in the borough.
Lambeth Joins a Nationwide Movement
Launched in June 2023 by Prince William and The Royal Foundation, Homewards is a five-year initiative aimed at making homelessness “rare, brief, and unrepeated.” Lambeth is one of six pilot regions, alongside Sheffield, Aberdeen, Newport, Northern Ireland, and the Bournemouth-Christchurch-Poole area.
Each location serves as a testing ground for innovative housing models that combine community partnership, sustainable funding, and wraparound support services.
Centrepoint to Manage New Flats
The Lambeth development will be operated by Centrepoint, a leading UK youth homelessness charity where Prince William has served as patron since 2005. The flats will be part of Centrepoint’s Independent Living Programme, offering residents tailored support services, including mentorship and financial literacy resources.
Importantly, rent will be capped at a percentage of each resident’s income, ensuring affordability and helping young people transition toward independent living with confidence.
Progress Across the UK
This announcement coincides with Homewards’ second anniversary. On July 1, 2025, Prince William visited Sheffield to mark the occasion—on what would have been Princess Diana’s 64th birthday—underscoring his commitment to expanding the initiative’s reach and impact.
So far, over 100 housing projects have been launched under Homewards, all bolstered by a £50 million funding package from Lloyds Bank. In March 2025, the first residents moved into Aberdeen’s pilot housing project, where Prince William personally helped welcome a formerly homeless woman into her new home.
Beyond Housing: Art, Awareness, and Action
Homewards is also using creative engagement to raise awareness around homelessness. In summer 2024, Prince William supported a public art exhibit at the Saatchi Gallery, titled “Homelessness: Reframed”, designed to challenge public perceptions and spark conversation.
Conclusion:
With its third Innovative Housing Project now underway in Lambeth, Prince William’s Homewards initiative continues to make transformative progress in the fight against homelessness. By combining affordable housing, job readiness, and supportive services, the program is creating a blueprint for long-term, sustainable change—one community at a time.
