We believe that partnerships that really matter are the ones that show up consistently, evolve over time, and make a tangible difference. Our partnership with Xero does exactly that!
Over the past three years, Xero has stood alongside us in a way that feels both practical and purposeful. Their support has helped us reach more people and raise awareness of LGBTQ+ homelessness, and strengthen the impact of our services.
One of the most visible parts of this partnership has been Pride in London. For the past two years, Xero has sponsored our attendance, helping us to connect with our communities, partners, and supporters. Pride is always a moment of celebration, but it is also a moment to be visible about the realities LGBTQ+ people still face. Xero has helped us do both.
Beyond Pride, their contribution has taken many forms. From donating digital outdoor advertising space that amplifies our message, to inviting us in to meet their teams and share more about our work, they have created opportunities for real engagement. Xero has also provided direct financial support, helping us sustain and grow our frontline services.
This year, that commitment continues in a particularly inspiring way. Two incredible Xero employees will be taking on the London Marathon in support of Stonewall Housing, turning personal challenge into collective impact. We think it’s a powerful reminder that brilliant partnerships are ultimately about motivated people!
Across all of this, what stands out is the consistency. Over three years, Xero has not only supported us, they have helped us build momentum. They have backed our mission in ways that are thoughtful and grounded in shared values.
As we continue to grow the reach of our work, partnerships like this make a real difference.
Case study: outed and pushed out
“Leah” was 18 when her parents found out she was in a relationship with another girl. She had been seen kissing her girlfriend by someone who knew her family, and within hours, her life at home changed completely.
The atmosphere shifted overnight. Conversations became confrontations, and it quickly became clear that staying was no longer an option. She was told to leave, with little time to process what was happening or to make a plan.
Leah found herself facing homelessness almost immediately, without the resources or support network to navigate what came next.
When she reached out to Stonewall Housing, she was frightened and unsure who to trust. Our team provided immediate advice and advocacy, helping her access emergency support and guiding her through her housing options.
We worked with her to engage with her local authority, ensuring her situation was understood properly and that she was treated with the urgency it required. Alongside this, we offered ongoing emotional support, helping her rebuild a sense of stability and control.
With the right support in place, Leah was able to move into safe accommodation and begin taking steps towards independence.
Her story is one we see far too often. Being outed, rejected, and forced to leave home is still a reality for many LGBTQ+ people. The difference is what happens next, and whether the right support is there at the right time.
Stories like Leah’s are not rare. They’re part of a wider pattern we see every day. Support that is timely, specialist and affirming can make all the difference in what happens next.
A word from our services team
John Stubbs, Director of Services at Stonewall Housing, reflected on what this support means in practice:
“Partnerships like the one we have with Xero make a direct and meaningful difference to the people we support. Their backing helps us reach people earlier, respond more effectively, and create spaces where LGBTQ+ people feel seen and safe. It is not only about funding, it is about visibility, trust, and the shared commitment to making sure no one faces homelessness because of who they are.”
If you’re inspired to donate in support of Kate and David’s marathon challenge, we’d love to know. Please add a note in the comment box when you give so we can celebrate your support with them: https://stonewallhousing.org/donate/
From all of us at Stonewall Housing, good luck Kate and David.
We’re right behind you and incredibly grateful for everything you’re doing!