Council continues to fund the Citadel project

Hastings Borough Council is delighted to continue funding the Citadel Hastings project, ensuring it will run into 2026.

Since launching, the Citadel team in Hastings has been supporting people facing or at risk of homelessness through one-to-one support with trained volunteers. Over the past nine months, they have built a community rooted in trust and consistency - offering not just practical support, but meaningful connections. They have trained 21 volunteers, 12 of whom are now matched with individuals for regular meet-ups, and supported 15 people through challenges, including debt, housing instability, and social isolation.

Alongside one-to-one support, Citadel hosts regular community and wellbeing activities, including a crafts workshop and gardening at the allotment. As one person told them recently: "It’s the kind of stuff I really need in my life right now - and it’s nice to feel part of a group. Something I haven’t felt in a long time."

Cllr Glenn Haffenden, lead for Housing at the council, said: “Hastings Borough Council is committed to ensuring that everyone has a safe and secure home, and we recognise the value of community-led approaches in tackling homelessness.

"We are proud to support the Citadel project and other local organisations that continue to help us tackle homelessness here in Hastings. We want to thank the Citadel team, whose focus is on relationships and community, not just the crisis response. Initiatives like this show the real impact of grassroots, people-first support, and we’re delighted to see the project continue into 2026.”

Nichola d’Urso, Citadel Co-ordinator, added: “I'm delighted that the project will be continuing and have been blown away by the support from the Council and partners, the local community and our amazing volunteers. I truly believe that this type of project is a great example of what can be achieved when we come together as a community and work together to support local issues.”

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