Mental health resilience support worker Isla Aitchison, who works for Change Mental Health, has teamed up with Kingdom’s Tenancy Support Service since November to provide flexible, trauma-informed support to prevent crises, reduce eviction risk and boost tenancy sustainment.

Working in tandem with GPs, social services, legal partners and third-sector agencies, the adaptability of the approach is shaped by ongoing feedback and the unique set-up that gives tenants a safe space to speak openly about their experiences of housing.

With tenants facing common issues like depression, anxiety, chronic health conditions, neurodivergence, hoarding and compulsive behaviours and, in some cases, violence, the first-of-its-kind partnership has created the blueprint for holistic support within the housing sector.

Between April and July of this year, 27 Kingdom customers have been supported, and over 88 hours of direct engagement have been logged. Support has been tailored to weekly, fortnightly or monthly sessions depending on need, with a blend of in-person, phone or digital contact.

For tenants facing eviction or challenges from complex health and safety requirements during this time, the partnership has removed barriers, offered meaningful human support and empowered the tenants to build secure futures by keeping them in their homes.

Kingdom’s customer resolution manager, Richard Barnett, said: “This isn’t just about filling gaps. It’s about offering support that recognises people’s realities.

“The approach has received national attention, including at the Share Annual Conference, and this is a testament to Kingdom and Change Mental Health’s shared commitment to person-centred tenancy sustainment support.”

Change Mental Health’s Isla Aitchison added: “I’m proud to be part of this innovative and pioneering collaboration between Kingdom and Change Mental Health.

“We have intentionally focused on laying strong foundations to ensure we are creating inclusive, nurturing and empowering environments - helping to build meaningful, integrated support for individuals and the communities we serve.

“Importantly, this is helping people thrive, with an approach of being proactive, rights-based and grounded in a belief in people’s potential.

“This initiative will grow stronger, deepen its impact and offer lasting, sustainable benefits to the communities we care about.”