A new supported home is offering a fresh start to some of the city’s most vulnerable residents, providing not just a roof over their heads but a pathway away from life on the streets.
A homelessness charity has opened a specialist property designed for people who have been sleeping rough, marking a further step in efforts to tackle rising homelessness.
The house, run by Path, is the third Multi-Agency Rough Sleeper (MARS) property in Plymouth. It was purchased in December 2025 and has been adapted to provide private en-suite rooms for residents who have experienced long-term homelessness, often alongside health issues, trauma and complex needs.
The project has been commissioned by Plymouth City Council and funded through the Government’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme, alongside the charity’s own funds. The building has undergone safety and accessibility improvements and has been furnished to prepare it for residents.
Each person living at the property will receive support from a dedicated worker to help them move towards independence and longer-term housing.
Becky Saxton, head of housing at Path, said: “For many residents of our new house, this will be the first time in years that they have had a place of their own.
“Somewhere they can begin to feel secure and rebuild their lives.
“This project reflects Path’s commitment to working alongside partners to create genuinely life-changing housing opportunities for some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”
The accommodation is reserved for people who have been sleeping rough and are referred through Path’s outreach team. Facilities include private bedrooms with a kitchenette and television, a shared kitchen-diner, laundry facilities and a courtyard.
Staff are present throughout the day, with structured activities such as cooking, gardening and budgeting sessions aimed at rebuilding confidence and practical skills.
The service is designed as a first step away from homelessness, with residents supported to move into less supported housing or private rented accommodation when they are ready.
One resident, Paul, described the impact of the support as life-changing. After becoming homeless following a relationship breakdown and later struggling with drug use, he said moving into the property marked a turning point.
Paul said: “If it was not for them and this house, I would probably be back on the streets living that life again.
“I do not think I would be where I am today.”
Path supported 421 people sleeping rough in Plymouth last year and now provides accommodation for 20 people across its three MARS houses. The charity said the city is facing a growing housing crisis, with rough sleeping having doubled since 2023.
In 2024, the organisation helped almost 1,700 people experiencing homelessness.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, cabinet member for housing, communities and cooperative development, said: “Solving the problem of rough sleeping takes more than just providing a door, a roof and a bed for people.
“To break the cycle of rough sleeping, people need the time and support necessary to help them maintain accommodation and thrive.
“I have had the privilege of meeting some of Path’s residents and team and have seen for myself the difference that is made in transforming lives.”
More information about the charity’s work is available at www.pathdevon.org.
