The first UK trial to test the impact of unconditional cash payments on homelessness found people given £2,000 were more likely to be happier, in stable housing and had stronger relationships six months later.

The landmark study by the Policy Institute at King’s College London found that young people leaving care who were given a one-off £2,000 cash lump sum, with no strings attached, were less likely to be sofa-surfing than their peers and had a better quality of life.

Recipients of the money were less likely to face eviction due to antisocial behavior and had better wellbeing. They felt more optimistic and capable of solving problems a year later. One participant used the money to buy a laptop for further education. Aeryn was “speechless” upon learning she would receive the money.

“It shows that there are some people for whom a payment of that amount at the right time changes their trajectory in life,” said Prof Michael Sanders, director of the experimental government team at the Policy Institute. “It enables them to secure a standard of housing and make sure they’re comfortable there.”