Our Work in Great Britain
We are working to create much needed affordable homes and support local communities.
Empty Spaces to Homes Partner With Us
What we do and why.
In Great Britain, we have a shortage of affordable, decent homes. Far too many people are on waiting lists for social housing, living in temporary accommodation or in unaffordable, low quality private rented homes.
Habitat for Humanity GB work in partnership with Local Authorities, charities and community groups to unlock more social and affordable homes by converting empty commercial buildings and providing essential home items and furniture. We champion sustainability and community empowerment, and develop innovative housing solutions to create lasting, positive change across Great Britain.
Empty Spaces to Homes
We want to provide part of the solution to the housing crisis, reduce carbon emissions and revitalise our communities by bringing empty buildings back into use. There are over 175,000 commercial buildings sitting empty, often becoming drivers of crime and anti-social behaviour.
By repurposing these spaces, we’re helping to create much needed social and affordable homes, bring life back to high streets and support communities. Since 2018, we have been working to make this happen through our Empty Spaces to Homes (ES2H) programme.
Houses to Homes
Only 2% of social housing comes furnished. Our Houses to Homes Programme supports vulnerable individuals and families who have experienced housing instability by helping them transform their house into a home.
Through redecoration, light-touch repairs, and affordable furniture, we help individuals take pride in their homes, gain practical maintenance skills, and give them a sense of ownership in their accommodation. With vital support from our partners and dedicated volunteers, Houses to Homes is helping to deliver much needed services across Havering.
Community Hub
Housing is one of the most urgent public policy issues in the UK, profoundly shaping nearly every aspect of people’s lives – influencing social connections, community participation, access to education, employment and health outcomes. Women’s experiences of unstable housing are often overlooked.
Our Community Hub in Romford provides support to women facing housing-related challenges who are referred to us via our local partners. Through furniture provision, practical advice and workshop and training opportunities, we support women to feel informed and navigate the housing system.
ReStore
Habitat for Humanity ReStore Great Britain is a home improvement charity shop with a powerful purpose: supporting people in need of safe, decent and affordable housing. As a social enterprise, ReStore plays a vital role in funding Habitat for Humanity’s work, helping to build homes, strengthen communities and promote sustainability.
When you shop at ReStore, you’re doing more than finding great value – you’re helping to build a better future. Join us in choosing conscious consumerism, reducing waste and supporting communities, one purchase at a time.
Our research
Read our latest research on how empty buildings can help solve the housing crisis.
Get involved
Volunteer or partner with us on one of our programmes in Great Britain.
Join our Coalition
Join our growing network of organisations with a shared interest in repurposing empty buildings.
Advocacy
What we’re doing to change policy and practice and how you can help.
Contact us
To find out more about our work or discuss ways that we can work together, get in touch.