Ark Resettlement Services (ARKRS) is an award-winning charity specialising in supporting ex-offenders to reintegrate into the community, through the provision of housing and support.
‘We are really pleased to have invested in Ark Resettlement Services through the Reach Fund, Recovery Loan Fund and Flexible Finance Fund. Ark Resettlement Services makes a substantial impact in promoting social inclusion among ex-offenders through provision of housing and support. Support is tailored to the specific needs of individuals and includes a focus on mental health, skills development, education and employment opportunities which leads to lasting change and a reduction in reoffending. The Recovery Loan Fund and Flexible Finance Fund investment enabled Ark Resettlement Services to purchase a property in Tottenham to provide accommodation and increase the number of people who can be housed and supported.’
Challenge
The majority of Ark Resettlement Services' revenue was allocated towards covering the costs associated with leased properties and providing support. Rental costs increased over the past few years and Ark Resettlement Services took the decision to purchase a property.
Solution
Ark Resettlement Services approached The Reach Fund, which provided a grant to explore options for investment and the feasibility of obtaining finance. Subsequently, the organisation secured blended finance from the Social Investment Business Recovery Loan Fund and Flexible Finance Fund, which, alongside investment from Trust for London, enabled the organisation to purchase a property.
Revenue model
Rental income from the provision of housing and support is the main source of income.
Impact
Ark Resettlement Services purchased a property in Tottenham in March 2024 which has increased the number of ex-offenders that the organisation can house and assist in reintegrating into the community through comprehensive support programmes.
‘Accessing the Reach grant was a pivotal moment for Ark Resettlement Services, enabling us to build the capacity and resilience needed to take on further investment. The subsequent Recovery Loan Fund and Flexible Finance Fund investments have been transformative, allowing us to scale our operations in acquiring our first property, it has extended our reach, and deepened our impact in the communities we serve. These funding opportunities have not only supported our immediate objectives but have also strengthened our long-term sustainability.’