About the Organisation
Path – Tackling Homelessness in Plymouth
Path is a leading homelessness charity based in Plymouth, with nearly 30 years of experience supporting the city. In the face of rising homelessness and record numbers in temporary accommodation, the organisation’s work is more vital than ever.
Path supports 80–90 rough sleepers each month and delivers targeted programmes for vulnerable groups, including young people, refugees, and ex-offenders. Its services span street outreach to housing solutions, with over 280 units of temporary and settled housing now offered across the city.
Key Services Provided by Path:
- Rough Sleeping Service: Provides outreach to rough sleepers, intensive support, and Housing First placements for individuals with complex needs.
- Temporary Accommodation: Offers short-term housing with tailored support for single individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
- Housing Advice: Delivers expert advice to help prevent and resolve homelessness, particularly for those with complex personal circumstances.
- Refugee Programme: Offers bespoke housing and integration support for refugees, including those without access to public funds.
- Offender Support: Assists prison leavers and individuals on probation in securing suitable housing, reducing the risk of homelessness and reoffending.
- Private Rented Access: Supports individuals in accessing and maintaining private tenancies, including deposit guarantees and collaboration with landlords.
- Settled Accommodation: Manages and supports long-term housing solutions through Path-owned properties and its Easylet scheme in partnership with private landlords.
Request details:
Path has been offered the opportunity to lease properties for temporary accommodation that fall outside its usual scope and experience. Typically, the organisation leases small HMOs or family houses on a 3 to 5-year basis. However, these new properties are significantly larger—ranging from 15 to 30 rooms—with longer lease terms of up to 10 years. In some cases, the arrangements involve taking over existing leases rather than securing new ones in Path’s name.
Path is therefore seeking pro bono support to fully understand the implications of entering into lease agreements of this nature. This may include legal advice, lease reviews, and assistance in negotiating with property owners’ solicitors.
Path is eager to explore these promising opportunities to expand its accommodation offer. However, professional guidance is essential to ensure all legal aspects are properly considered.
Timeline:
June 2025