Richmond charity Riverbank receives government grant to tackle homelessness

The borough of Richmond Upon Thames will benefit from £228,091 through Richmond charity, Riverbank, under the Government’s Ending Homelessness in Communities Fund (EHCF). This will enable expanded support for single mothers and their children who face vulnerabilities and live in temporary accommodation. 

The three-year award will fund support for families living in hostels in the borough, helping mothers and children create stability, removing barriers and building stronger futures. The funding will also enable the installation of a Riverbank Trust cabin at one of the hostels, supplying a long-term venue for Riverbank’s specialist one-to-one support, group work, and community connection. 

Since launching in Richmond in 2010, Riverbank has grown from a single centre to serving families across the borough through its four local centres in Richmond, Ham, Whitton, and Hampton Wick. Working with the Council, schools, churches, and community organisations, Riverbank is a trusted and embedded part of Richmond’s support landscape.

The UK award follows a competitive national application process and recognises Riverbank's cycle-breaking model of long-term support for families facing significant challenges including homelessness.

The government has shown interest in other parts of the UK learning from Richmond’s success with Riverbank’s model. Riverbank was the only organisation listed solely under the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames to receive funding through the programme. 

Laura Lowther, Chief Executive of Riverbank, said: "This is wonderful news for Richmond and for the families we support. For over fifteen years, Riverbank has walked alongside single mothers and their children facing vulnerabilities, and has supported families as they move towards brighter futures. 

"We’re delighted that this funding will enable us to deepen our work with families experiencing homelessness, and to continue working in partnership with Richmond Council and our many other partners to deliver lasting impact across our borough."

Councillor Chris Varley, Richmond Council’s lead member for housing, said: “This funding is hugely welcome news for Richmond upon Thames and, most importantly, for the mothers and children who will benefit from more dedicated support when they need it most.

“Families living in temporary accommodation can face enormous uncertainty, and Riverbank plays a vital role in helping people rebuild stability, confidence and connection.

“This award rightly recognises the impact Riverbank has already had, as well as the strength of partnership working across Richmond.

“We look forward to continuing to work alongside them to help vulnerable families access the support they need and move towards brighter, more secure futures.”

Further information

Find out more about the government's EHFC allocations. 

Learn more about Riverside and its work.