Bentley House is a warm and welcoming 20‑flat accommodation service designed for people who are ready to move on from long‑term supported housing or rough sleeping.
As an accommodation service run by The Passage, Bentley House offers newly refurbished studio and one‑bed flats, giving tenants a comfortable home where they can settle, feel safe, and make the space their own.
Community is at its heart. Tenants are encouraged to get involved in local activities, including a community garden project and other social opportunities designed to help people feel connected and confident in their new surroundings.
Support from staff is friendly, flexible and focused on helping tenants maintain their tenancy and build independence at a pace that feels right for them.
Who is Bentley House for?
- An accommodation service containing 20 studio and one-bed flats
- Ideal for single adults over 40 who can live independently but may feel reassured by having staff nearby
- Not suitable for people with high support needs, or significant mobility issues
- Welcoming to people known to mental health services who can manage without intensive support
- All residents start with a 12 month introductory tenancy, with the aim of offering a long-term home where people can put down roots
The team behind Bentley House
Richard Kizito is the Key Worker responsible for the service, supported by Milena Manso, the Housing Co‑ordinator. Together, they make a formidable team.
Richard has worked at The Passage for many years across two separate stints. After an initial eight‑year tenure, he returned to his home country, Uganda, before coming back to London two years later to resume his previous position – a role he has now held for 13 years. His drive comes from the opportunity to help people change their lives, supporting them through difficult periods and helping them move towards stability and independence.
Building trust is essential, Richard explains. Many residents arrive with past experiences that make them cautious or distrustful. While residents are encouraged to make their own decisions, he helps them understand their options and supports choices that will benefit their future.
“Supporting vulnerable residents isn’t just my job,” adds Milena. “It’s about witnessing resilience, hope, and the return of community belonging. It is incredibly moving to see individuals rise again and re‑establish their place within a community they once felt disconnected from.”
Richard’s role as Independence Coach includes:
- Inducting new residents and helping them adjust to their new environment
- Arranging practical support such as housing benefit and council tax
- Helping residents register with local services such as doctors and dentists
- Working with other professionals, including care coordinators, to support residents with complex needs
- Encouraging residents to make their own decisions while guiding them towards positive outcomes
Richard’s mantra is simple: never give up. He believes that no matter how difficult circumstances may be, people can recover and improve their lives with persistence, hope and support.