We come from a programme Down Under!

At Greater Manchester Housing First, we’re always keen to connect with others working to end homelessness, sharing learning and best practice. It’s especially exciting when those opportunities cross international borders!

Recently, our partners at Jigsaw Homes welcomed Jen Parks and Michael Chester, joint CEOs of Uniting WA, based in Perth, Australia. Their organisation provides community-based services, including a homelessness hub and accommodation.

Ursula, Mike and Tim met with Jen and Michael for a thoughtful and engaging discussion about homelessness in both Australia and the UK. We explored Housing First as a model, which apparently isn’t widely known in Australia, and shared insights into the work of both organisations.

Jen and Michael then visited two of the people we support at home. Both have been with the programme since the beginning and have made great progress. Jen and Michael shared how much they enjoyed getting to know them and hearing about their experiences on the service.

After lunch, the visit continued at Jigsaw’s RSAP service, purpose-built flats where they met a resident and members of the staff team.

Michael and Jen from Uniting WA with Jigsaw's Ursula and Michael

 It was a fantastic opportunity to connect, share learning, and reflect on the impact of our work.

To find out more about Uniting WA, visit unitingwa.org.au/about.