The Museum of Homelessness (MoH) has announced plans to open its first location at Manor House Lodge in London’s Finsbury Park in 2023.
The new venue be a “world-class creative hub”, according to a release. It will be developed by the Museum of Homelessness in collaboration with local residents and community groups.
“This ground-breaking museum is everything a museum should be, rooted and radical and with a far-reaching ambition to make positive and lasting change with our communities,” said Sharon Heal, the museum’s chair of trustees.
The museum will host performances, talks and workshops. These will be created by people with experience of homelessness. The plans also include an open access arts studio for people experiencing homelessness.
Museum of Homelessness will offer 250 support sessions each year focusing on housing, legal rights and the provision of essentials. These will be “designed in partnership with those in need”.
“Finsbury Park is the people’s park, with a proud and radical history,” said Matt Turtle, co-founder of the Museum of Homelessness.
“We are excited about transforming this precious site into a museum space like no other, a place where people can hear stories they won’t hear anyone else and receive practical support when they need it,” he added.
“Our community will work with partners including the council and people experiencing homelessness locally to make a space for everyone.”
New creative hub in Finsbury Park
Confirmed funders for the museum’s first three years are Historic England, the Linbury Trust, Oak Foundation, Paul Hamlyn Foundation and Arts Council England.
The new museum will be at the StreetsFest community festival in Finsbury Park on 23 September to discuss its plans with local people.
Cllr Julie Davies, cabinet member for communities and civic life, said MoH “will challenge visitors to rethink their preconceptions and encourage them to approach people who experience homelessness with compassion and empathy”.
Haringey Council is now undertaking initial works on the site, which are due to finish in winter 2022. The Museum of Homelessness team will then embark on a six-month community development period ahead of opening.
Images: Museum of Homelessness
