Two centuries of support: Huge milestone reached by Glasgow homelessness charity

The Glasgow homelessness charity Right There is celebrating its 200 year anniversary today.

The charity was able to help 4000 people affected by the housing crisis last year.

To commemorate this occasion, Right There is pledging to help 2000 more people this year.

The charity was initially established in 1824 to help out young men struggling with homelessness as part of the YMCA.

The chief executive Janet Hugh said to Glasgow live: “While two centuries of supporting people faced with the trauma of homelessness is a significant milestone, and one we are exceptionally proud of, it is bittersweet that in the 21st century the world’s sixth richest nation still is in such crisis over housing.

“It’s a shocking reality that in 2024 inequalities and poverty are continuing to grow and severely impacting many lives. Homelessness is at an all-time high, with 45 children a day becoming homeless in Scotland and one in four people living in poverty.”

Just Right also include other services such as mentoring, intensive family support, and one to one couching.

The charity is also celebrating this milestone by encouraging schools and community groups to choose Right There as their charity partner in 2024 and by participating in the charity walk fundraiser with The Kiltwalk.

A survey done in 2021-22 showed that Glasgow made up 20% of Scotland’s homelessness figures.

Statistics show that increases in housing insecurity have occurred in Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire, and West Dunbartonshire.

Mrs Hugh added: “A common misconception is that homelessness is just about rough sleepers, but it covers a whole multitude of individuals that find themselves in challenging circumstances.

“Addressing the issue for anyone in this situation is not just simply putting a roof over someone’s head, its about providing a safe and supportive environment, which in turn gives them the opportunity to realise their potential.”

To take part in the fundraising, or to seek help with housing and homelessness, visit the Just Here website: https://rightthere.org/