Funding boost fuels specialist housing expansion plans

A housing provider has secured a significant funding package to drive the development of specialist housing and expand its services across the UK.

Golden Lane Housing, headquartered in Manchester, has received £10 million from NatWest to support its long-term growth strategy. The organisation provides supported living solutions for over 2,800 individuals with learning disabilities autism across the UK.

The funding will aid property acquisitions and bolster their ambitious ten-year development programme aimed at helping more individuals live independently within their communities.

The initiative includes property acquisitions and enhanced support for individuals transitioning to independent living, aligning closely with NHS England’s “Homes Not Hospitals” campaign.

John Verge, chief executive of Golden Lane Housing, said: “This is an important deal for Golden Lane Housing as the funding we have received will allow us to continue to achieve our vision of providing the individuals we serve with access to good quality housing that meets their needs.

“We want to empower people with a learning disability and autistic people to have authority over where and how they live, and the funding we have received from NatWest is crucial to achieving this.

“Continued expansion of our property portfolio across England, Wales and Northern Ireland means we can continue to provide access to bespoke housing solutions that are tailored to specific needs.”

Shaeen Azam, director of finance and resources at Golden Lane Housing, added: “This is an exciting time for Golden Lane Housing, the securing of £10m will enable us to achieve our growth ambitions. 

“This deal enhances our ongoing relationship with NatWest who were really supportive in working with us and our treasury advisers Allia C&C Ltd to secure the additional funds.”

NatWest’s commitment to social housing, underscored by its pledge to provide £5 billion in sector funding by 2026, highlights the growing need for investments to meet the £340 million annual demand for specialist housing in England.

As demand for specialist housing continues to outstrip supply, this partnership highlights the importance of private and public investment in enabling greater independence for vulnerable communities.

Dharmesh Patel, regional relationship manager at NatWest, added: “As a leader in specialist housing provision, NatWest is thrilled to support Golden Lane Housing in their ambitions to acquire further properties and ultimately help more people across the UK.

“The team at Golden Lane Housing are dedicated to delivering a positive impact within communities and are proactive in their sustainability strategy.

“We look forward to seeing the continued good work from the business as they strive to support further individuals to live independent lives.”

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