Project Bright Path supports people who are rough sleeping or at risk of rough sleeping and experiencing mental health challenges, both diagnosed and undiagnosed. The programme provides rapid, relational and trauma-informed support through short-term, focused interventions and better connection into mainstream services. Its purpose is to help people stabilise at times of crisis and access the right mental health and housing support at the right time.
A review of Project Bright Path’s work in 2025 shows continued strong outcomes for individuals, alongside the growing strength of Vennture’s partnership with NHS commissioners. The programme continues to respond to people whose mental ill health and housing instability are closely linked, and where unmet need can quickly escalate into crisis.
A key development during the year was the appointment of two Band 7 mental health practitioners, one based in Herefordshire and one in Worcestershire. Their specialist clinical input has already made a difference, supporting people with complex needs, helping unlock access to formal mental health assessments and diagnosis, and strengthening the ability of frontline workers to navigate mental health systems.
Alongside this, Vennture Link Workers have continued to support individuals who are rough sleeping, sofa surfing or on the brink of homelessness. Support is often short-term, typically involving up to four focused interventions, with flexibility where situations are more complex. Rather than signposting, Link Workers walk alongside individuals, supporting access to GP services, crisis teams, A&E, housing teams, adult social care and other key agencies. For many people, this practical, relational approach is essential.
The programme operates closely with Vennture’s wider response work, particularly where mental health challenges overlap with substance misuse, safeguarding concerns or involvement with the criminal justice system. During 2025, 55 rapid response cases received immediate support, often within hours of referral. This helped prevent escalation into A&E, police detention under Section 136 or safeguarding crisis. Thirty individuals were supported through longer mentoring journeys linked to the criminal justice system, with only one person re-entering custody.
Project Bright Path’s training programme has also continued to grow in reach and reputation. Fully booked training blocks were delivered across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, with expanded venues improving access for outlying areas. Training has been delivered in partnership with a wide range of organisations, including housing providers, rehabilitation centres and voluntary sector partners. Content has continued to evolve, with additions including trauma-informed approaches, neurodiversity awareness and clearer pathways for mental health and homelessness support.
Overall, the 2025 review highlights the value of Project Bright Path in reducing pressure on emergency services, improving access to appropriate care pathways and supporting people through highly complex and chaotic circumstances. The addition of specialist mental health practitioners, combined with Vennture’s relational approach, has strengthened outcomes across health, housing and criminal justice systems.
Looking ahead, Vennture aims to build on this success through the Neighbourhood Health initiative, supporting more people in the community before crisis points are reached.
