The Access Hub on Argyle Street has recently celebrated one year of impact. Opened on 30th September 2020 by Simon Community Scotland, the Hub has since provided over 24,000 face-to-face supports to around 3,000 individuals! The multi-agency advice and support hub for people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness has been imagined to ensure that users feel their welfare is paramount and to make it much easier for people to get support. Fitted out in cool colours, with contemporary furniture and designer lighting, on entering the city centre building, service users will be met by a person rather than a reception desk. People using the hub will then 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 well-being services.

This groundbreaking initiative is helping to radically reshape the experience for, and impact on people at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness in Glasgow.

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. The was set up in partnership with Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership, 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.

Lorraine McGrath, Chief Executive of Simon Community Scotland stated:

“By coming together, ‘under the one roof’, many of the barriers to accessing critical services are removed and we are delighted to have the support of close to 20 organisations to make this groundbreaking project a success. …I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported the Hub, to all our staff and volunteers and to all our partners who we work alongside to make a difference. We are changing and saving lives.”

Frances McKinlay, chief officer of Marie Trust, added:

“The Access Hub will not only be a place to access a wide range of health and other interventions – but will also offer a more holistic approach in supporting people in immediate and longer-term need. Together, in partnership, we are stronger in alleviating homelessness and enabling opportunities for self-growth and routes out of homelessness.”

You can find out more about The Access Hub through watching this video: