Recently, Ferry Project finished analysing their year end data for the period between April 1 2022 and March 30 2023. During this time, the charity provided over 13,000 nights of accommodation, and supported a total of 246 people with housing related support and a further 171 people by providing accommodation in the Fenland area.  Wisbech, the home of the charity, is one of the most deprived towns in Cambridgeshire, and sees a greater number of challenges for those looking for employment. Data from the 2021 census showed that over 30% of people in Wisbech have no qualifications, compared with just 18% across England.

Across three branches of the charity, the statistics have been incredibly positive. Of those supported in the main hostel in Clarkson House in the last year, 80% have positively moved on from Ferry Project. Clients in the emergency accommodation had a 75% positive move on rate, and for those staying in external supported accommodation this was up at 93%.

It is the hope of the charity that those who receive their support are able to regain the confidence and practical skills to return to independent living, and whilst this will never be possible for some due to their high support needs, the positive move on rates above show how for many clients moving into their own home again is a reality.

However, many clients have significant challenges to tackle before they are able to move on: 66% of those staying in Clarkson Hostel had a mental health issue, and 68% of those who stayed in the emergency accommodation had a physical disability. 60% had a history of self harm, and nearly 90% needed support for alcohol issues.

In light of this, Ferry Project supported many of their clients in registering with a doctor and navigating the NHS to find specialised support for individual issues. In Clarkson Hostel, 97% of clients were registered with a doctor by March 30th, and 100% were registered in the emergency accommodation. As a result, over 70% of clients in the Clarkson Hostel reported that they have been managing their physical health better.

Beyond physical health, one of Ferry Project’s central aims is building the self-esteem and confidence of their clients. To become homeless, people must be rejected by every single person in their lives, leaving them feeling isolated and worthless. A study conducted by homeless charity Crisis concluded that homeless people are over nine times more likely to take their own lives than the general population. Beyond providing shelter, Ferry Project aims to be a welcoming community that helps people to feel valued again. Whilst staying in Clarkson Hostel, nearly 30% reported feeling more confident and less isolated. 28% were also supported in improving contact with their families. Out of those staying in the emergency accommodation, 57% said they were participating in leisure activities again.