It will provide emergency advice and signposting to support services
A charity has launched a new online resource to improve support for people in Glasgow experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Simon Community Scotland has unveiled Street Support Glasgow, which will provide emergency advice and signposting to support services.
The project, developed by researchers and community partners, is accessible via web browser and smartphone app and is part of work across Britain.
A spokesman for the charity said: “We know first hand from our Glasgow Access Hub how important it is for people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness to have a one-stop shop to access the information, support and care that they need. Over 3,000 people accessed our hub from its opening in September 2020 - September 2021.
“We are thrilled to bring Street Support to Glasgow as part of our ongoing commitment to digital inclusion and support. Some of the best ideas are simple - there is a lot of support out there and the Street Support Glasgow site and APP brings it all together in one place.”
Street Support Glasgow has been developed in collaboration with Manchester-based Street Support Network, which is now live in over 30 locations across the UK.
A bank of information on providers of meals, drop-in services, foodbanks and accommodation in Glasgow is available on the digital resource, as well as signposting to financial help, health services and training and employment opportunities.
Up-to-date advice on Covid-19 and support available during the pandemic has also been added.
Coordinators say the resource provides a vital service to vulnerable people and the community by providing accessible information in one easy to use location.
It also offers a ‘Give Help’ function, that encourages members of the public and businesses to engage with tackling homelessness in Glasgow.
Street Support has previously been launched and well-received in Edinburgh, and Simon Community Scotland are hoping it will be rolled out further across Scotland.
Gary Dunstan, co-founder of Street Support Network, said: “Street Support Glasgow is a first for the city. There is nothing else like it. And it is needed.
“Glasgow is the local authority with the most households assessed as homeless in Scotland. Sadly, there are a lot of people who need to know where, when and how to access support. This resource has helped people in other cities and we hope it can help people in need in Glasgow too.
“We also hope that Street Support Glasgow will be a tool for support and social care workers and emergency services personnel. But it’s also for businesses and the public who want to help.
“Ultimately, along with Simon Community Scotland and all the partnership organisations on the app, we are united working towards reducing the number of people experiencing homelessness in Glasgow.”
