Young Kieran's housing issues solved by innovative new concept
A homeless teenager has become the first person to move into an innovative micro-home, built as part of a unique project to tackle Britain's homelessness.
Kieran Evans, 18, was handed the keys to the cosy property in Barbourne, Worcester after it was placed into a back garden over the summer.
The 186sq ft (17.25sq m) space - which takes inspiration from yachts and first-class aeroplane cabins - cost just £40,000 to build and comes complete with a bedroom, a fully furnished kitchen, a bathroom 'module' and even an entertainment zone.
The project, believed to be the first of its kind in the world, is aimed at solving the country's homelessness and housing crisis.
If the pilot is successful, the homes - called iKozies - could be installed across the rest of the UK.
Kieran left home at 17 and spent a few weeks at a YMCA hostel before moving into temporary accommodation on his 18th birthday.
He said: “I'm ecstatic, genuinely so happy to have my own space. It's like a compact luxury apartment.”
The structure is held in place by a steel frame with a front cladding made of larch wood with a green, corrugated iron roof.
The project is run by the Homeless Foundation, and the property itself will be managed by the Spring Housing Association, both charities.
Tenants will have to take responsibility for paying for rent, water bills and food in a bid to teach them how to survive independently.
The charity believes the accommodation could be used to house students, young professionals, and key workers in areas where there is a housing crisis.
Joanne O'Donnell, a trustee of the Homeless Foundation charity, said: "Rough sleeping is just the tip of the iceberg.
“The biggest issue in homelessness is the plight of young homeless people who cannot afford a home and end up sofa surfing or in hostels and temporary accommodation.
“The iKozie will provide a home for Kieran and will hopefully help him to secure his own tenancy with a Housing Association by proving that he can live independently and sustain a tenancy.”
