A Scottish social enterprise company, Social Bite, has announced plans to expand its work with the homeless by building a village for homeless people in Granton, Edinburgh.
The plan is to construct ten purpose-built houses and create a model to end the cycle of homelessness. In partnership with EDI Group and City of Edinburgh Council, Social Bite plans to produce an innovative, low cost, supervised, safe living environment for up to 20 homeless people for around 12 months each.
Social Bite will work with the council and other homelessness charities to identify suitable residents for the Social Bite Village. The site will be open to people who are currently living in mostly unsupported temporary accommodation, shelters, and B&Bs.
Josh Littlejohn, the founder of Social Bite, said: "The Social Bite Village plan hopes to create a full circle solution to the issue of homelessness – from housing to support to employment. In doing so we hope to alter the course of some of Scotland's most vulnerable people for the better – swapping a destiny of poverty and exclusion for one of compassionate support and inclusion."
The energy-efficient, eco-friendly, sustainable houses will contain two bedrooms (some single bedroom options will be available), a shared WC with shower, a lounge area and a small food preparation area. Construction costs for each house is expected to be approximately £30,000.
Commenting on the announcement, Cllr Gavin Barrie, Chair, EDI Group, said: “As part of our commitment as a responsible developer, EDI actively explore temporary worthwhile uses for our land prior to development. The proposals put forward by Social Bite will have a meaningful and positive impact on those using the Social Bite Village.”Local MSP, Ben Macpherson, said: “Social Bite makes a big difference every day and the Social Bite Village initiative will expand on that success. I am delighted that it will be based in Granton, making a positive impact locally and providing comprehensive support for around 20 of the city’s most vulnerable citizens.”
The above article first published on seftonsupportedhousing.org.uk in Dec, 2016.
