Pro bono advice helps charity acquire properties for homeless people

Following on from previous pro bono real estate advice which Charles Russell Speechlys provided to Transform Housing & Support last year, the team at Transform got back in touch in January this year with a request for assistance on acquiring five properties for their beneficiaries. Transform is a Surrey-based charity providing housing and support to more than 1,700 homeless and vulnerable people every year. 

Mark Rowden, Senior Associate in Private Property, has been working with Transform over the past few months to complete three of the five property acquisitions to secure homes for formerly homeless individuals. Mark also advised on the other two properties, which fell through early on due to assignment provisions in the leases. Speaking on his pro bono assistance, Mark outlined “I was very happy to work with Transform to secure these properties for their beneficiaries. Transform are doing important work in the local community here in Surrey and surrounding areas, and I hope these flats will be places where homeless people can start to take first steps in their journey to a more independent, stable and fulfilling life.”

Commenting on the pro bono work carried out, Director of Asset Management & Capital Development at Transform, Michael O’Brien said “These particular properties were part of the “Next Steps Accommodation Programme” – a Government and local authority-funded initiative aimed at providing accommodation for rough sleepers. The housing will be used to provide self-contained good-quality accommodation with support for people with complex needs to enable them to live independently. Transform will also assist clients to access benefits/training, education and other services provided by a range of other organisations. The pro bono advice and assistance from Charles Russell Speechlys on these acquisitions has been very gratefully received. Charles Russell Speechlys has been a key partner in supporting us to deliver five Next Steps homes and life-changing outcomes and opportunities for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.”

If you are interested in hearing more on our Pro Bono Practice or to find out how you can get involved, please contact Sarah Farrelly.