History

1987 - 1989

Set up in 1987 by Bryn Higgs and Tom Ruxton bringing derelict properties back into use providing self-build opportunities for homeless volunteers. In April 1989 LATCH was registered as an Industrial and Provident Society.

1990

Leeds City Council leased LATCH 2 rundown properties.

This was LATCH's first self-build Project.

1994

Winner of the Community Enterprise Award for Housing and Homelessness. Presented by Prince Charles.

1995 - 1998

Allocated a further 8 houses (a total of 28 bed spaces) The refurbishment of the 8 houses was completed providing LATCH with 50 bed spaces.

1999

The SOLO project was funded by the National Lottery to purchase and refurbish new office premises at 176 Chapeltown Road, Leeds 7 and employ a new worker to develop support services for tenants.

1999 - 2001

Number One Project was a self-build project for young people. This Victorian building was transformed over 3 years into 6 desirable flats which self-builders then moved into. Funded by the National Lottery and Single Regeneration Budget with support from Leeds City Council and the CRASH Trust.

LATCH was awarded the 2001 Big Difference Award by the Big Issue in the North.

2002 - 2005

The SHHIFT project was a 3 year programme set up to involve tenants working on their own home improvements.

On completion, 18 flats and houses were improved including installation of new bathrooms and kitchens.

The number of flats and houses are increased to 35.

2007

LATCH is accredited as a provider of housing support and awarded a contract through Leeds City Council’s Supporting People Programme supporting up to 42 people through the service

2008

LATCH invests in the Decent Homes Programme bringing our properties up to 'decency' level as specified by the government, for example installing central heating and double glazing in all properties. Work is completed in 2010

2008 - 2010

LATCH was awarded grant funding by the BIG Lottery and the Tudor Trust for our Hands On project to renovate a grade 2 listed derelict coach house and employ 2 new workers. With the help of volunteers, renovations were completed in 2010 and Hands On is now a thriving training workshop.