A month on from the publication of the National Plan to End Homelessness, its ambition continues to spark vital conversations across the country. At The Ferry Project, we welcome this renewed national focus particularly its recognition of the scale and complexity of homelessness across England. That recognition must include the hidden homelessness we see every day in rural communities like ours.

For too long, rural homelessness has been less visible but no less damaging. We support people who are sofa surfing, living in unsafe accommodation, or quietly falling through the gaps. These are not statistics, they are individuals whose lives, health, and futures are shaped by the trauma of housing insecurity. Acknowledging this human impact is essential if we are serious about change.

The plan’s message that “homelessness is not inevitable” reflects what we witness daily. Effective rural support means recognising the unique challenges faced by people in small towns and villages, and ensuring they have the same access to safety, stability, and trauma‑informed care as those in major cities. We are recognised for our deep knowledge and expertise in rural homelessness, built over years of supporting communities where homelessness is often hidden.

Our team provides high‑quality, trauma‑informed support across the whole organisation. This is not a model we apply; it is a culture we live in, we listen, we learn, and we walk alongside people with dignity and respect. We also welcome the plan’s commitment to listening to lived experience, a principle that sits at the heart of our approach.

With significant national investment now committed, it is vital that rural communities benefit from this ambition. As the plan moves into delivery, rural areas must not be overlooked, hidden homelessness is real, and rural communities must be part of the national solution.

The Ferry Project stands ready to work closely with government, partners, and the Homelessness Secretary to turn ambition into real, lasting change. We will continue to champion rural communities, continue to innovate, and continue to provide the exceptional support our community relies on.

Ending homelessness is possible but only if every community is included in the solution. Rural areas must not be left behind, The Ferry Project is ready to work with government and partners to turn this plan into meaningful, lasting change.

Sandra Ferreira
CEO, The Ferry Project