At Sonnet, we believe in impact that lasts – and in evidence that shows when change is really happening.
That’s why we’re proud to share early findings from our ongoing evaluation of Grosvenor Hart Homes (GHH) – a pioneering social investment initiative launched in partnership with Cheshire West and Chester Council and backed by the Duke of Westminster.
We’ve worked with GHH since the very beginning – from early design through development and piloting – helping shape a model that puts evidence and lived experience at the heart of its offer.
The vision behind GHH is ambitious but clear: provide high-quality, affordable homes with wraparound support for young people leaving care and vulnerable families. These homes aren’t just bricks and mortar – they’re part of a bigger offer: one that includes practical help with employment, health, financial stability and emotional wellbeing, all designed around the people who live there.
What we’ve learned so far
This interim evaluation tells a powerful story – even with a relatively small number of tenants, the green shoots are already visible:
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Tenants are building trust and starting to thrive. On-site Practitioners with manageable caseloads are making a huge difference – their consistent, relational approach means tenants feel safer, listened to, and more willing to share what they need.
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Support works best when it’s holistic and joined-up. From mental health to employment advice, what makes the model work is its coordination. Hiring a dedicated in-house mental health lead, for example, transformed sleep and wellbeing outcomes for tenants almost immediately.
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Partnership is key. GHH is working side-by-side with the council and other local partners to catch problems early and tackle them together – not in silos.
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The economic case is strong. The evaluation shows the model isn’t just improving lives – it’s likely to save public money in the long term. Prevention really does pay.
Crucially, the people GHH supports are among those with the highest levels of need – including care leavers and families leaving temporary accommodation. This is a group that is often underserved by traditional systems, and supporting them well is a vital focus for the social enterprise and for us.
Read the report: Grosvenor Hart Homes - Interim Evaluation
What’s Next
The GHH team is already using these insights to refine and strengthen their approach – adding more targeted support for physical health, and starting to measure the value of safe, inclusive community spaces.
For Sonnet, this work goes to the heart of what we do: helping organisations design and deliver interventions that work – and proving it. We’re excited to keep walking alongside GHH as they scale what’s working, demonstrate long-term value to government, and help change the system for good.
