London’s Latest Home For Homeless Teens Gets a Big Boost
Thanks to a hefty seven‑figure funding package from Unity Trust Bank, thousands of young Londoners who have nowhere to call home will keep getting the support they need at the brand‑new LandAid House.
From Vision to Reality
Two years ago, YMCA London City and North set out to create a modern, 146‑bed sanctuary for vulnerable youth on Errol Street. The original building had outlived its purpose, so they embarked on a bold £19.4 million rebuild—spending 14 years turning a dream into a reality.
What’s Inside?
- Cozy ensuite bedrooms that keep your privacy untouched.
- Shared lounges for movie nights and group study.
- Fully fitted kitchens so you can whip up a fancy stir‑fry.
- Laundry facilities (because free‑laundry costs you—trust me).
“LandAid House is where young people reclaim their dignity, feel truly independent, and, honestly, start feeling like adults again,” Chris East, YMCA’s Director of Community and Enterprise, said.
The Big Fund‑raising Moment
When the building was finished, the final hurdle was moving from a one‑off development grant to a long‑term, sustainable financial product. Unity’s knack for working with charities unlocked a remortgage for the new premises plus extra working capital for more housing projects.
“We’ve got an arrangement that keeps the doors open for future growth and gives us the flexibility we need,” Chris East added. He also gave a shout‑out to Paul Kelly, Unity’s relationship manager, for being a solid partner who understood the YMCA’s mission.
Why This Matters
LandAid House isn’t just a building—it’s a lifeline. With 400 beds spread across five sites, YMCA supports roughly 600,000 people across seven boroughs. Every tenant gets a dedicated case worker, life‑skills coaching, and job‑search help.
“Providing a safe place for trauma‑ridden teens to rebuild their lives is what we do,” Paul Kelly noted, adding that being a Londoner himself makes this partnership feel extra close. “Unity’s mission is to do good through finance, and this is exactly that.”
Cheers From the Top
Gillian Bowen, YMCA’s Chief Executive, said the same: “Unity’s values resonate with our cause. Their flexible product helps us keep our focus on making life better for homeless teens.”
Paul Thornhill, Director at Thornhill Capital Ltd, praised Paul’s teamwork: “It’s a pleasure working with Paul and Unity. The loan terms are competitive and meet our needs—excellent news for all involved.”
Impact & Future Outlook
Looking ahead, LandAid House is set to touch the lives of over 10,000 young people throughout its lifespan. With the new financial backing, the YMCA can keep expanding, ensuring that no teen in London has to face homelessness alone.
So here’s to Unity, the YMCA, and a future where every teenager gets a comfy bed, a safe space, and a chance to thrive!
