Castle Housing Initiative
What is the Castle?
The Castle is an accommodation project with support, managed by The Purfleet Trust, and launched in 2026.
We recognise that homelessness comes in many forms, from sofa surfing to rough sleeping, and can happen for a wide range of reasons. Helping people on their journey out of homelessness is vital, and this includes supporting independent living through accommodation projects.
For a number of years, we have operated our Training Houses across King’s Lynn. These properties support over 30 people at any one time. Over the years, the Training Houses have been very successful in helping people to learn vital skills and move forward on a positive pathway out of homelessness and toward independent living.
The Purfleet Trust have been a charity for over 30 years, based in King’s Lynn. We support people across West Norfolk, including many people who are struggling in Downham Market. Introducing the Castle project into Downham Market is the next step that we can take in expanding our successful Training House projects to more local people in West Norfolk.
The goal of the project, as with our Training Houses, is to support people so that they can live independently in the future. People come to live in our Houses for a number of reasons, but they all share the need for additional support to successfully manage a tenancy. We provide this additional support to help people gain the skills of independent living that many of us take for granted. Through this support, we help people to grow and take positive steps to work towards independence, so that they can live successful lives in the future without the need for support.
About the Castle
The Castle is made up of 9 self-contained one bedroom flats and 4 single occupancy bedrooms accommodating a total of 13 people.
Work began on the Castle in 2023 to transform the vacant property into one that supports people in our community on their journey towards independence and positive futures.
The property is in the heart of Downham Market, with access to the town centre, local services, supermarkets and transport links.
Staff are available on-site during weekdays at the Castle. CCTV and secure door entry system help ensure safety and security of residents.
The support we provide
The Castle helps people to learn vital life skills in their own accommodation, whilst being supported by an Independent Living Coach. The Coaches provide practical, hands-on support with:
Living at the Castle
We welcome referrals from the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk and other local agencies. Each applicant’s support needs are carefully assessed prior to acceptance. Request a referral form here.
Housing Support Services
Find out more about our Housing Support in West Norfolk