About us
Turning Lives Around (TLA) works with some of the most marginalised individuals in society to prevent homelessness, support independent living, and promote wellbeing at home. With a focus on sustainable solutions and building on people’s strengths, TLA provides accommodation and tailored support, working in partnership to help individuals access employment, education, and play an active role in their communities.
For over 50 years, TLA has been a trusted presence in West Yorkshire, preventing homelessness and supporting vulnerable people into independent living. As experts in homelessness and housing-related support, the organisation offers hope, stability, and a pathway back into community life. TLA supports a wide range of individuals, including young people, adults, families, older people, and those sleeping rough.
Working in partnerships, TLA delivers a broad and responsive range of services, from Street Outreach to 24/7 Supported Accommodation, as well as specialist housing for alcohol-dependent women and young people aged 16–25. Across all services, the organisation takes a holistic approach, recognising that long-lasting change comes from addressing the full range of challenges people face. TLA’s work is grounded in a set of core values, including:
Quality and Continuous Improvement – Delivering high-quality services and continually seeking ways to improve.
Empowerment – Promoting self-worth, respect, and client-led support.
Aspiration, Recovery and Peer Support – Believing change is possible and valuing the power of lived experience.
With teams based across Leeds and Wakefield, TLA supports some of the most excluded people in the community. In 2023/24, the organisation:
Rehoused 34 entrenched rough sleepers
Provided emergency accommodation to 153 clients
Supported 31 victim-survivors through specialist Domestic Violence and Abuse Leads
Delivered 468 group work sessions in Intensive Support Environments
TLA’s strategy and business plan has been refreshed to respond to both the challenges and the opportunities emerging from a shifting policy landscape. The organisation is continuing its journey to become a registered Social Housing Provider and is using this process to strengthen operational management and governance.
TLA is guided by a committed and collaborative Board of Trustees. This twelve-strong team brings a diverse mix of experience and is united by shared values and a deep commitment to achieving positive outcomes. Together, they ensure the organisation remains financially secure, strategically focused, and true to its mission.
Finances
Turning Lives Around (TLA) has successfully navigated a period of financial stabilization following recent challenges. According to its Charity Commission records, the income of TLA is c£7.5M, compared to a total expenditure of c£7.2M. The two main sources of income as of 2023/2024 has been contract funding, and income from rent.
Turning Lives Around welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and is committed to ensuring its leadership reflects the diversity of the communities it serves, including those affected by homelessness and housing inequality. While relevant experience and the ability to guide a board are essential for the role, the organisation particularly encourages applications from individuals who are underrepresented in leadership and governance positions, and from those who can bring different perspectives shaped by lived or professional experience. Turning Lives Around is also committed to making the recruitment process inclusive and accessible and will make any reasonable adjustments to ensure all applicants can fully participate in the application and interview process.