Launching the Private Rental Scheme with charity partner DENS
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 28
On 16 April, the TDS Charitable Foundation and its homelessness charity partner DENS officially launched their Private Rental Scheme. This is an innovative programme to tackle homelessness in the Hertfordshire borough of Dacorum, where TDS main offices are based.
At the launch event, landlords, letting agents, DENS’ clients and key stakeholders came together to hear from both partners about why the scheme matters and the real difference it's already making.
The Private Rental Scheme helps people experiencing homelessness access the private rented sector (PRS), and supports those at risk of eviction to keep their home. This combined focus on access and prevention is what sets it apart from many PRS schemes.
How the Private Rented Sector can help solve homelessness
Sean Fitzgerald, Head of Accommodation Services at DENS, set the scene by describing the pressures reshaping homelessness in Dacorum. Declining social housing supply, rising private rents and a growing number of PRS tenancy breakdowns were all driving referrals to the Elms hostel. It was clear that crisis management alone wasn't enough – prevention had to become a focus too. Working with local partners was where they could achieve the best results: "The greatest things can be achieved in partnership,” he said.
"Homelessness can be complex, as lives can be complex. But its solution is also simple: if you have a safe, secure and affordable home, with the right support to keep it."
Dr Jennifer Harris, Head of Policy, Research and Social Impact at the TDS Charitable Foundation, echoed that ambition. Research by the Foundation had shown that homelessness from the private rented sector was rising sharply in Dacorum, with the number of people approaching the council for help after tenancy breakdown doubling in recent years.
While the PRS is often seen as part of the problem, both organisations believe it can be part of the solution. As Jennifer put it: "Homelessness can be complex, as lives can be complex. But its solution is also simple: if you have a safe, secure and affordable home, with the right support to keep it. That’s where we're making a difference."
Early impact — and ahead of target
"DENS have been absolutely fantastic... You get your identity back"
At the heart of the partnership are two dedicated new roles. Bryony Withey, the Property Management Lead works with landlords who want to make a difference – breaking down the stigma around letting to people experiencing homelessness and providing ongoing property management support.
Kaycee Gamble, the PRS Key Worker identifies DENS clients who are ready to rent, helps them settle into their tenancies, and works proactively in the community to prevent tenancies from breaking down.
Since launching in late 2025, the team has already found secure, affordable homes for 12 people – ahead of where the partnership expected to be at this stage.
For one DENS client, Steve, the impact has been profound: "DENS have been absolutely fantastic,” he said. “You get your identity back… It gives you your dignity back."
The TDS Charitable Foundation is proud to support the fantastic work DENS does every day. It's hugely encouraging to see such strong early results, and we look forward to watching the scheme's reach and impact continue to grow.
If you’re a landlord who wants more information or to get involved, contact Bryony Withey, Property Management Lead, on 07780 295586.
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