A brand-new multi-agency advice and support hub for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness was opened on 24 September in Glasgow’s Argyle Street. This ground breaking initiative is expected to radically reshape the experience and impact for people at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness in Glasgow.

Run by leading homelessness charity, Simon Community Scotland, the Access Hub has been imagined to ensure that users feel their welfare is paramount and to make it much easier for people to get support. On entering the city centre building, they will be met by a person rather than a reception desk. The brief to architecture practice, INCH Architecture + Design, and interior designers, 3 Design Scotland, was to make visitors feel special.

The hub has been designed so that staff from partner agencies will be able to meet clients, ‘hot desk’ and share ideas and practice with fellow support workers.

People using the hub will be able to access a wide range of support all ‘under one roof’ from expert providers. These include financial and legal support and advice, counselling and digital support as well as health and wellbeing services.

The hub has been set up in partnership with Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP), Glasgow City Mission, Marie Trust and Turning Point Scotland. Along with Simon Community Scotland, each are members of City Ambition Network, formed in 2015 to aid Glasgow’s most vulnerable and excluded homeless people.

Speaking about the innovative approach to partnership working, Pat Togher, Assistant Chief Officer, Public Protection and Complex Needs, Glasgow City HSCP, said: “This model demonstrates the extent of creativity and determination from key partners, ensuring services are quickly accessible and responsive to those in most need.”

Funding has been provided by the Robertson Trust, plus Glasgow City Mission, Bank of Scotland Foundation, Glasgow City HSCP, the Clothworkers Foundation and the Landfill Trust, along with Simon Community Scotland’s own reserves.

Read the full story on the Simon Community website.