Through its Social and Sustainable Housing fund (SASH I & II), SASC offers flexible loans to charities and social enterprises which specialises in housing, enabling them to purchase properties and provide much-needed housing for those at risk of homelessness.

The fund has supported numerous Scottish organisations, including Simon Community Scotland, the Positive Steps Partnership in Dundee, and Homes for Good Glasgow, which have used this financial backing to create safe, affordable homes for vulnerable people.

Simon Community Scotland: A Lifeline for Vulnerable People

Simon Community Scotland (SCS) is an award-winning charity founded in 1963, focused on supporting people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Central Scotland. SCS provides a range of services, from street outreach, to support hubs and supported accommodation, helping individuals with safe places, support, and hope. Their dedicated team of over 300 staff offers a blend of practical and emotional support, ensuring that individuals can make the transition to independent living.

In May 2021, SASC invested £5 million in SCS to expand its services into Edinburgh, purchasing 15 properties for those facing homelessness. This significant investment was partly funded by the University of Edinburgh, which contributed £1m from its Social Investment Fund. The homes acquired under this scheme now provide safe, affordable accommodation for up to 30 individuals with complex needs, many of whom were previously stuck in temporary accommodation or being homeless.

Lorraine McGrath, chief executive of Simon Community Scotland, said: “Edinburgh faces a severe shortage of affordable homes. Our mission is to end rough sleeping and provide long-term solutions for those who are spending too long in temporary accommodation. This loan from SASC has been transformative. We can provide quality homes where people can rebuild their lives with the support they need.”

Housing First: A path to independence

A key aspect of Simon Community Scotland’s work in Edinburgh is the implementation of the Housing First model, which prioritises providing stable, permanent housing as the first step to overcoming homelessness. 

The model is complemented by tailored, wraparound support that helps individuals manage other challenges in their lives, such as mental health issues or addiction. This approach is rooted in the belief that housing is a fundamental right, and with the right support, individuals can take control of their future.

Lorraine McGrath noted: “We believe housing and support should never be separated. Our flexible, trauma-informed approach adapts to the needs of every individual. For many, it is the first time they’ve experienced stability in years. We are proud to offer services that do not just provide shelter but offer people the chance to thrive.”

University of Edinburgh and Scottish National Investment Bank (the Bank): Investing in Change

The University of Edinburgh has been a crucial partner in supporting Simon Community Scotland’s work, contributing £1m of its Social Investment Fund to SASH II. 

Dave Gorman, director of social responsibility and sustainability at the University, said: “As values-driven institutions, universities have a responsibility to address social issues, and we believe that social investment is an effective way to support positive change.

“Our investment in SASH has helped to deliver life-changing results for vulnerable people in Edinburgh, and we are proud to continue supporting this vital work.”
SASH II, managed by SASC, has also attracted investment from institutions like the Bank, which has committed £15m to support Scottish charities. 

Susan Campbell, director of market creation (place) at the Bank, commented: “Like the Bank, SASC is focussed on impact, which is why we were pleased to invest in the SASH II fund. It is encouraging to see the positive impact that SASH funds have had already, providing desperately needed housing to those who need it most. As a mission-led investor, this investment perfectly aligns with our place mission, to create homes and improve communities for everyone.”

The Impact - Rebuilding lives and nurturing new beginnings

The impact of Simon Community Scotland’s work can be seen in the lives of the individuals they support. 

Since taking on SASH funding, SCS has purchased thirty-two homes in Edinburgh and successfully housed seventeen people under the Housing First model from April 2023 to July 2024 (15 of which were funded by SASH). This made SCS the largest provider of Housing First homes in 2023-24, with 50% of the total properties under this programme. Furthermore, these homes had an 83% tenancy sustainment rate.

Among them is G, a tenant who shared: “Having a new home has changed my life in so many ways. I have freedom again, and my mental health has improved. I finally feel human again.”

Another is X, a 93-year-old who experienced a remarkable transformation through Simon Community Scotland’s Housing First service. After more than 25 years of facing the challenges of homelessness, they finally found a place to call home. With support, he secured a stable tenancy and began rebuilding his life. One key milestone was his transition from the hospital into his new home. 

SCS has also supported their first family through Housing First, offering a mother and her two children the opportunity to settle into a safe home. H, a young woman who had suffered from abusive relationships and homelessness, is now thriving in her new home, excitedly decorating a nursery for her growing family. Her journey from instability to security shows the power of housing coupled with compassionate, continuous support.

Lorraine McGrath sums up the transformational impact: “There is more to long-term safety and security than just providing a home. People need the opportunity to live independently but also access support when needed. Our team is always just a phone call or visit away, helping people navigate the complexities of their lives as they move out of homelessness.”

Conclusion: A blueprint for lasting change

SCS’s work, enabled by SASC and supported by key partners like the University of Edinburgh and the Scottish National Investment Bank, is providing a blueprint for how to tackle homelessness for the long term. 

Mark Bickford, CEO at SASC, said: “The impact Simon Community Scotland is having is transformative. They are setting a benchmark for how to effectively lift people out of homelessness for the long term. By providing permanent homes alongside comprehensive, wraparound support, they are addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of homelessness in Scotland.

“Social investment has been crucial in enabling this, allowing the charity to grow its services, become financially sustainable, and significantly increase its reach. This model offers a clear and lasting solution to reducing homelessness, giving individuals the stability and support they need to rebuild their lives.”