New 24/7 service offers tailored support and safe housing for Kensington’s most vulnerable
A new round-the-clock accommodation and support service for rough sleepers has opened in North Kensington, offering personalised care and recovery support for some of the borough’s most vulnerable residents.
Kensington and Chelsea Council’s Complex Needs Rough Sleeper Service provides ten bedrooms and two communal areas where trained staff offer trauma-informed, specialist support. The facility aims to help residents rebuild their lives by improving mental and physical health, accessing health screenings, and engaging in lifestyle and nutrition education.
The communal spaces will also host external providers delivering targeted services, such as smoking cessation support and skill-building sessions.
“For some of our most vulnerable residents, recovery isn’t just about shelter—it’s about gaining the skills to live independently,” said Cllr Sof McVeigh, the council’s lead member for housing. “This service offers a safe place and expert support to help break the cycle of rough sleeping.”
The initiative is funded through the Greater London Authority’s Single Homeless Accommodation Programme and run by Social Interest Group Penrose. Referrals are made via the council’s street outreach team.
“We’re proud to support Kensington and Chelsea’s most entrenched rough sleepers on their journey to a healthier future,” said Adam Moll, director of external affairs and impact at Social Interest Group.
The Council also operates a wider homelessness prevention system, including night patrols, mental health professionals, and a new Homelessness Prevention Hub designed to reach at-risk residents early.
The initiative is part of the Council’s draft Housing Strategy 2025–2030, which focuses on reducing rough sleeping, expanding supported accommodation, and preventing homelessness across the borough.
