Milestone marks two centuries of support
A charity dedicated to preventing homelessness is this year marking its 200th anniversary.
Over 12 months from February this year until February 2025, Right There is delivering a programme of activity to raise awareness of Scotland’s national housing crisis, while pledging to extend its reach to support even more individuals experiencing homelessness or who are separated from the people they love.
Right There helps almost 4,000 children, adults, and families every year who have been affected by poverty, homelessness, addiction, childhood trauma and other major life events.
The charity has grown from a grassroots movement called Glasgow Young Men’s Society for Religious Improvement formed in 1824, before becoming YMCA Glasgow for 160 years and thereafter Ypeople.
In 2022, the charity changed its name to Right There to reflect its approach to supporting one person at a time.
Recently the charity hosted its latest event, a staff festival for over 100 of its employees at Glasgow Science Centre to celebrate its 200 year history and explore its vision for the future.
Right There chief executive, Janet Haugh said: “This year marks a significant milestone for Right There, and we take great pride in celebrating our long legacy of supporting people faced with the trauma of homelessness.
“Sadly the reality is that poverty and inequalities continue to grow, with homelessness at an all time high. 200 years on from our beginnings, our charity has grown and adapted, but our core values of giving everyone an equal chance in life remain steadfastly the same.
“Our staff festival celebrated the crucial work of our charity over two centuries, recognised the sheer dedication and commitment from our staff team today and allowed us to look ahead to ensure we can continue to support the most vulnerable in society for as long as that support is required.”
Wullie McCool is a former resident of the charity’s Branston Court supported accommodation in Glasgow in the mid-1990s. He told the festival of the impact Right There had on him.
He said: “I stand before you as living proof that the seeds of kindness you plant truly grow. When I needed help the most, you were right there—offering me safety, compassion, and the belief that my life could be different. Because of you, I've been able to plant those same seeds of hope in others, changing lives in ways I never thought possible.”
Wullie grew up in Possilpark, struggling with the scars of a traumatic childhood. After losing his home and turning to substance abuse, he was discovered sleeping rough by a member of the charity. This led to life-changing support that helped him rebuild his life. Wille transformed his experiences, becoming a dedicated mentor who used sport and community initiatives to steer young people from destructive paths.
He continued: "It was through the kindness of the people at Branston Court that I first felt truly valued. They showed me that there was no catch—just genuine care, something I had never experienced before."
Earlier this year, Right There launched a groundbreaking study into its impact, revealing that it generates over £300m of savings every year for the public purse, through its unique approach to preventing and tackling homelessness, and in November will host a Garden Lobby reception in the Scottish Parliament.
