Bristol charity supporting 1,900 young people across the South West wins top award at city ceremony

A Bristol-based youth homelessness charity has been recognised for its impact across the South West after winning a top award at the Bristol Life Awards 2026.

1625 Independent People was named Charity Winner at the annual event, which celebrates organisations making a meaningful difference to communities across the city.

The charity has seen significant growth over the past year, supporting 1,900 young people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness – a 20% increase compared to the previous year. The figures highlight both rising demand for services and the organisation’s expanding reach across Bristol and the wider South West.

Founded in 1983 as a single shared house, 1625 Independent People has grown into a regional organisation with more than 120 staff and volunteers. It now plays an active role in both local and national discussions around youth homelessness and support services.

The award follows a milestone period for the charity, including its involvement in the Greg James Comic Relief cycling challenge. During the challenge, Greg James visited the charity’s Kingsley Hall base in Old Market, where he met with a young person supported by the organisation to hear first-hand about their experience.

Alongside its frontline work, the charity has secured £8.6 million in funding to redevelop Kingsley Hall, a Grade II listed building, into a new community hub. Plans include training spaces, a youth-led social enterprise café and new affordable housing, aimed at helping young people build skills, confidence and pathways into employment.

Kim James-Coggins, Corporate Partnerships, Philanthropy and Communications Manager at 1625 Independent People, said: “It is a true honour to receive this award, especially given the number of incredible charities across Bristol. Every member of our team is passionate about ending youth homelessness, so to be recognised in this way for our hard work and dedication means the world.

“No one should have to experience homelessness, yet demand for our services is sadly continuing to grow. The work we do at 1625 Independent People not only supports young people in a practical sense, but also provides a friendly, human connection at one of the most stressful times in their lives. We are committed to helping young people into employment to create long-term, sustainable change, giving them the stability, skills and confidence they need to thrive.”