News

Every day, our Community Charity Partners Glasgow City Mission and Simon Community Scotland work to help address the causes and effects of homelessness in our city.

We are very proud to support them in the work they do, and to share some recent case studies* from Glasgow City Mission, that show the impact they are having to real lives in Glasgow.

If you would like to support our work with Glasgow City Mission and Simon Community Scotland, you can sign up to take part in our Big Ibrox Sleep Outs in November and spend the night in our iconic Stadium!  Find out more or sign up HERE.

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of those involved.

Clare and Ryan’s Story

Glasgow City Mission and Simon Community often work closely together to help those effected by homelessness and Simon Community Scotland staff recently sought help from Glasgow City Mission for a mother and her son who had presented at their Access Hub in urgent need of support.

Having been sofa-surfing for some time, Clare and Ryan had reached a point where they had nowhere left to go. When they arrived at Glasgow City Mission, they were welcomed by the Overnight Team and offered a safe space in one of the emergency rooms for the weekend, receiving immediate relief at a time of deep uncertainty.

While securing accommodation was the most pressing need, the team also worked to connect the family with wider support. Clare began engaging with Glasgow City Mission’s Women’s Project Team, while Ryan quickly found a sense of belonging in their Urban Space, where he began to thrive.

Just six days after first presenting, the family received the news they had been hoping for. They were moving into a temporary furnished flat that day! It was a moment of real relief and renewed hope.

They have continued to stay connected with services at Glasgow City Mission and have even expressed a desire to give back through volunteering in the future.

Sophie’s Story

Sophie found her way to Glasgow City Mission recently after being homeless for 22 months, including 3 months spent rough sleeping on the streets of Glasgow.  She was given a safe place to stay at the Overnight Welcome Centre.

Uncertainty around her identification meant her Universal Credit had been stopped, leaving her without any financial means to secure a place to stay.

Despite these significant challenges, Sophie showed remarkable determination in trying to resolve her ID issues, navigating a complex and often frustrating process.

After 17 nights at the Overnight Welcome Centre, Sophie was finally offered temporary accommodation by the local authority. This was a significant and well-earned turning point – her perseverance had paid off.

Once settled, Sophie quickly began to rebuild her routine and confidence, volunteering at Glasgow City Mission’s HQ at Crimea Street and learning new skills in the kitchen. Looking ahead, she is focused on the future and hopes to secure her dream job once she moves into a permanent tenancy.

Mark’s Story

Many of the people who seek help from Glasgow City Mission are caught up in the relentless cycle of homelessness and addiction. They often arrive at the Overnight Welcome Centre at their lowest point, feeling exhausted, isolated, and unsure where to turn.

The Overnight Welcome Centre has become a vital safety net for many, offering not just immediate support, but a place where trust can start to be rebuilt.

Mark arrived at the Centre one night after spending two months rough sleeping. He was tired and worn down, and it was clear that he could no longer continue with the way he had been living. The Overnight Team welcomed him in, offering warmth, safety, and the chance to rest. The following day, he was supported by Glasgow City Mission’s Housing Settlement Officers, who took time to listen and understand what he needed next.

Mark spoke openly about his circumstances, his frustration and his desire for change. Through this, he was connected with the Rehab Pathways Team. What followed was a significant shift. Mark began attending groups regularly, engaging consistently, and building a sense of purpose and direction. He has since shared his hope of entering longer-term rehabilitation, taking meaningful steps towards recovery.

Today, Mark continues to engage with support, showing commitment to his journey and a determination to build a different future for himself.