Five Things You Didn’t Know About Innisfree HA

1. Deep Irish Roots in London - Innisfree Housing Association was founded in 1985 with a specific mission: to serve the Irish community in London, particularly those who had migrated in large numbers during the post-war years. Many Irish immigrants faced discrimination and lived in poor-quality housing, prompting the creation of a dedicated housing provider. Today, Innisfree still maintains strong cultural links with the Irish community, celebrating Irish traditions and supporting tenants through culturally sensitive services.

2. Small but Highly Specialised - At just over 600 homes, Innisfree punches well above its weight, with their size allowing them to provide a highly personal service, particularly to older Irish tenants and tenants experiencing loneliness, poverty, or mental health challenges. Their smaller scale fosters close tenant relationships and a deep understanding of individual needs. Innisfree offer a welcome, fáilte, to residents, wherever they are from.

3. A Pioneer in Supported Housing - Innisfree has been a pioneer in providing supported housing, particularly for vulnerable groups. One of their key services is supporting Irish elders and they have also worked closely with other specialist organisations to deliver tailored support, to refugees and the LGBTQ+ community.

4. Named After an Iconic Irish Poem -The name "Innisfree" comes from the famous poem The Lake Isle of Innisfree by Irish poet W.B. Yeats. The poem was written by the poet in London, as he felt a longing for his Irish home, and evokes themes of peace, home, and a deep connection to nature—ideals that resonated with the founders' vision of creating a safe haven for people far from their homeland. The name choice reflects the emotional as well as practical aspirations the organisation has always embodied.

5. Committed to EDI Beyond Its Roots - While Innisfree was founded for the Irish community, it has progressively expanded its mission to support people of all backgrounds, reflecting the multicultural reality of modern London. It is deeply committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), providing homes and services to anyone in need, regardless of heritage, while still honouring its Irish roots. Innisfree is a leading member of BME National.

Written by John Delahunty, CEO of Innisfree Housing