Specific need
North West charity seeks pro bono support with property acquisition and development in Morecambe
Location
North West
Organisation
LGBT Out in the Bay (OITB)
Reference No.
26 757
What do they need help with?
LGBT Out in the Bay (OITB) is looking for pro bono support from property and construction professionals to assess the feasibility of acquiring and redeveloping properties in Morecambe, Lancashire.
The charity currently operates a Community Hub and four self-contained supported accommodation flats at 30–32 Claremont Road, Morecambe, LA4 4HL. Through its No Labelz housing project, established in 2022, OITB provides safe accommodation and practical support to young people aged 18–25 experiencing homelessness.
Building on this work, the charity wants to create additional affordable move-on accommodation, helping young people transition from supported housing into longer-term independent living.
OITB is exploring opportunities to acquire and refurbish adjoining commercial and residential properties, with the potential to convert suitable spaces into self-contained flats while retaining essential community facilities.
Initial discussions have taken place regarding a potential property acquisition, with an indicative asking price of approximately £400,000 for one property. The charity has also identified an initial £100,000 provision for repairs, refurbishment and compliance works. These figures remain subject to professional assessment, and no purchase has been agreed.
To progress the project, OITB is seeking pro bono expertise in the following areas:
- Property valuation: Independent market valuations and advice on acquisition costs and long-term property value.
- Building and structural surveys: Assessments of building condition, structural integrity, damp, roofing, utilities and necessary repairs.
- Architecture and design: Feasibility layouts for affordable self-contained flats, accessible accommodation and community facilities.
- Planning advice: Guidance on planning permission, change of use, building regulations and housing requirements.
- Legal support: Advice on property acquisition, title checks, leases and appropriate ownership structures.
- Cost consultancy: Detailed refurbishment estimates covering fire safety, accessibility, energy efficiency and statutory compliance.
- Financial feasibility: Assessment of development costs, affordable rental income, maintenance and long-term financial sustainability.
The precise building measurements, floor areas and potential residential capacity have yet to be established. OITB would particularly welcome a coordinated feasibility assessment to identify key risks, development costs and a practical route towards delivery.
The charity has already developed a five-year organisational strategy and a ten-year business plan for its proposed No Labelz Community Interest Company (CIC), which would manage future affordable move-on accommodation.
With the right professional expertise, OITB can make informed decisions about property investment and take meaningful steps towards creating more secure homes for young people in Morecambe.
Timeline
As soon as possible
About the organisation
LGBT Out in the Bay (OITB) is a community-led charity supporting LGBTQ+ young people and adults across Lancaster and Morecambe. The organisation works to tackle homelessness, social isolation, discrimination and mental health challenges, helping people build confidence, develop independence and access essential support.
Originally focused on community activities and Pride events, OITB has expanded its services to include youth support, homelessness prevention and supported accommodation.
In 2022, the charity established No Labelz, a supported housing project providing four self-contained flats for young people aged 18–25 experiencing homelessness. Residents receive one-to-one support, financial education, tenancy preparation and practical independent-living skills.
OITB also runs a Community Hub offering youth groups, wellbeing support, counselling referrals, volunteering opportunities and social activities. The charity organises Lancaster Pride and Morecambe Pride, which attracted approximately 5,000 and 2,000 attendees respectively in 2026, according to the organisation.
Working alongside local authorities, housing providers and community partners, OITB aims to create lasting opportunities for young people.
Its long-term ambition is to expand affordable move-on housing in Morecambe, helping young people progress from homelessness towards secure accommodation, employment and independence