UNLOCKING THE DOOR TO A BRIGHT FUTURE

An innovative course designed to help people affected by homelessness in Glasgow's east end has been hailed as an overwhelming success.

The “Keys to Learn” 12-week-long course was delivered in a link-up between Glasgow Homelessness Network and Thenue Housing.

Working together, the two organisations helped a number of homeless people, individuals affected by homelessness or those having housing problems to learn new skills.

The course was delivered at the East End Healthy Living Centre in the heart of the east end.

It provided the opportunity to learn a number of skills such as computing, healthy cooking, basic DIY and linking with services in the local area, and ensuring further opportunities such as volunteering and learning.

A spokesperson for GHN said: “Keys to Learn is an innovative partnership approach between our main partners - Anniesland College, NG Homes and Glasgow's Regeneration Agency and funded by the Big Lottery Fund. 12 week courses are delivered in localities across Glasgow, aiming to increase tenancy sustainment and positive opportunity for people who are or have experienced homelessness or who find themselves in housing crisis.

“Staff from Thenue offered support throughout the course, essentially providing specialist information on housing processes, welfare reform and budgeting.

“Working with local housing associations such as Thenue allows Keys to Learn to engage with those who will most benefit from participating in the course, and ensures people are more knowledgeable and have personal links to services in their area."

One east end participant “Michelle” said of the course: “This has been the start of a new chapter in my life. It has built my confidence so much that I am now hoping to start a college course. I can honestly say that this course has been the best thing to happen to me in a very long time.”

Paola Doyle, Housing Support Manager at Thenue, added: “This has been a great example of two organisations working together to help people in the east end who are homeless or are affected by homelessness.

“Thenue is strongly committed to helping the communities where we have homes and the Keys to Learn course is another example of this ongoing work.”