Ending Homelessness in Scotland - Social Bite Impact Report 2018-19 - Visit us at: www.social-bite.co.uk
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Ending Homelessness in Scotland Social Bite Impact Report 2018-19 Visit us at: www.social-bite.co.uk TWITTER@SocialBite_ FACEBOOK-SQUARE @socialbitebusiness Instagram @social_bite Registered Charity in Scotland. SC045232
Table of Contents Introduction 3 The Social Bite Story 8 Pyramid of Change – The Social Bite Approach 11 Social Bite Programmes 14 Food & Shelter: Free Food Programme 14 Friendship & Fun: Social Suppers 16 Christmas Activities 21 A Home to Live In: Housing First Scotland 22 A Home to Live In: Social Bite Village 30 Opportunity: Social Bite Academy 34 Purpose & Opportunity: Volunteering Programme 37 Building a Movement to End Homelessness 40 Collaborations & Partnership Working 44 Our 2018-19 in Figures 46 * Names changed throughout for anonymity
5 Homelessness has an overwhelmingly negative impact Introduction on the lives of those who experience it, physically, socially and psychologically. It affects people when they are most vulnerable - when relationships break Social Bite is on down, when a job is lost, due to mental health problems a mission to end and trauma and above all when people experience poverty and cannot make ends meet. It leads to homelessness exclusion and exploitation and is a devastating waste in Scotland. of human potential. The Social Bite story began with Co-Founders, Josh Littlejohn and Alice Thompson, who set up a social enterprise that connected unexpectedly to the issue of homelessness. Through our cafes, our Founders and staff got to know people who live on the streets and in other unsafe settings. An issue and a group of people that are largely invisible came into sharp focus. Over time, we have explored the potential for our social enterprise to feed people, provide a safe place to socialise and opportunities for people to grow and develop. We realised that many other people wanted to help in this effort too so we have made it our mission to work collaboratively to end homelessness in Scotland - to ensure everyone feels included and empowered with a safe place to call home. Our Vision Our Mission 1. We use our pioneering A Scotland social enterprises to where enable people affected by homelessness to everyone has transform their own a safe place lives. to call home. 2. We lead a movement to end homelessness by generating funds, awareness and action across all sections of society. REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
6 7 Social Bite’s Logic Model PROBLEM IMPACTS OUTCOMES OUTPUTS > The public don’t believe homelessness > Marginalised people build happy and > People have basic need for food & > Free, healthy meals are served. can be solved. healthy lives and contribute to society social contact met on a regular basis. > Social Suppers and Social Scran events = through employment and volunteering. > Homelessness has become invisible. > People have safety & security of a home people in need receive positive contact > The public believes that homelessness and platform from which to build a life. with supportive staff & volunteers each > Temporary accommodation is a problem that can be solved. week day is expensive & ineffective. > People gain confidence, skills, social > Core homelessness in Scotland is connection from having a job or > Jobs and volunteering opportunities are > The system is failing people reduced through collaborative action. volunteering. delivered. most in need. > People have improved financial status > People move into safe homes through from accessing correct benefits or Housing First and Social Bite Village. working. > People and organisations engage in > People in Scotland are actively engaged movement to end homelessness. in movement to end homelessness and GOAL are more optimistic about the problem. End homelessness in Scotland ACTIVITIES > Serve healthy, free food to thousands of people in need across Scotland and run events that APPROACH RESOURCES reduce people’s social isolation. > Develop and support people to > Skilled, passionate staff and volunteers > Support people experiencing homelessness to work and volunteer. transform their own lives. > Social enterprise cafes, restaurant, > Catalyse transformational programmes that shift the system including Social Bite Village and > Engage the public and all sectors in production kitchen, vans. Housing First. goal of ending homelessness. > Partners across all sectors – > Run inspiring events & offer fundraising and volunteering opportunities and that build mass > Bring positive disruption, urgent action government, other charities & social participation movement focussed on ending homelessness in Scotland. and focus on system change enterprises, companies. > Relevant, quality research. > Support and funds raised from general public. EXTERNAL FACTORS NATIONAL INTERNATIONAL > Rising poverty and inequality. > Global momentum of Social Business. > Collective will amongst Government and Blurring of lines between sectors. partners to end homelessness in Scotland. > Growing global action on ending > Punitive and shifting benefits system e.g. homelessness in specific countries, introduction of Universal Credit. cities and populations. > Brexit uncertainty. > Brexit uncertainty. FIGURE 1: SOCIAL BITE’S LOGIC MODEL SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
8 9 The Social Bite Story Social Bite was founded by Josh employment of people affected by Since its inception, Social Bite has been Our city centre locations are easily accessible, Littlejohn and Alice Thompson in 2012 homelessness (32 people in 2018) and successful in connecting the public to and mass fundraising events such as Sleep as a sandwich shop in Edinburgh, which supports homeless people to volunteer the issue of homelessness. in The Park and Wee Sleep Out have inspired thousands to join our mission. High profile aimed to give away all its profits to good (28 people in 2018). We distribute endorsement by well-known figures such as causes. The shop’s central location healthy, free food (139,732 in 2018) via George Clooney, Leonardo Di Caprio, Prince meant staff got to know members of our cafes and run Social Supper events Harry, Meghan Markle and most recently the homeless community and began connecting 420 vulnerable people Malala Yousafzai have also raised our profile. offering jobs and free food to people each week with food, support and We are committed to using this profile to affected by homelessness. be a positive, disruptive force in advancing opportunities. the cause of homelessness in Scotland. Social Bite Ltd. now employs 72 people In September 2016, we expanded our and operates a chain of 6 social activities to launch a social enterprise enterprise sandwich shops across restaurant, which provides a weekly Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen, sit-down meal for 40 people from and a food delivery business supplied the homeless community as well as by a production kitchen in Livingston. training opportunities for our supported Our Social Bite Academy enables the employees. Sleep in the Park Aberdeen Malala Yousafzai with Social Bite Co-Founder, Alice Thompson Social Bite’s Rose Street cafe Monday afternoon’s Social Supper at Vesta Restaurant and We Sleep Out 2018 participants SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
10 The Social Bite Story 11 In 2017, our ambitions have widened to having This highly supportive community is delivered Pyramid of Change – The Social Bite Approach an impact beyond our own social enterprises. in partnership with the Cyrenians and Hillcrest We commissioned Heriot-Watt University, Housing Association. The project is entirely the pre-eminent UK body for homelessness geared to breaking the cycle of homelessness, research, to set out a framework for eradicating building positive relationships and offering core homeless in Scotland’s four largest cities. residents pathways into training, employment, Our approach is underpinned by the work of person-centred Simultaneously, we ran a mass sleep out for 8000 volunteering and permanent accommodation. psychologist Abraham Maslow who formulated a theory of human people in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh, motivation based on a series of innate needs, known as Maslow’s called Sleep in the Park which raised £4 million. During 2018, based on Heriot-Watt University’s hierarchy of needs. Basic human needs such as food, shelter and recommendations, Social Bite decided relationships are fundamental to existence and are the foundations In July 2018 we opened the Social Bite Village. to invest a significant proportion of the Built in under a year, on an area of disused funds raised by Sleep in the Park in the of the pyramid. If these needs are not met, a person is unlikely to be Council land in Edinburgh. The village provides creation of our Housing First project. able to realise the higher needs of positive self-esteem and personal an alternative to the ineffective and substandard achievement. temporary accommodation solutions which This momentum continued in 2018 with currently exist. It is home to up to 20 people in 10,000 people taking part in Sleep in the specially commissioned twin share ‘Nesthouses’ Park across Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee designed by Johnathon Avery and Tiny House and Aberdeen and 5,000 young people Scotland. These high-quality eco-homes are joining in our first Wee Sleep Out initiative. energy efficient and sustainable, providing safe and comfortable accommodation in a supported community environment. PURPOSE OPPORTUNITY A HOME TO LIVE IN FRIENDSHIP & FUN FOOD & SHELTER Social Bite Village Site: Before Build Social Bite Village Site: After Build FIGURE 2: SOCIAL BITE’S PYRAMID OF CHANGE SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
12 Pyramid of Change: The Social Bite Approach 13 Building lives Food and Shelter Friendship and Fun Homes to Live In Jobs and Opportunities Purpose At Social Bite, we recognise The harsh facts are that There is a wall of stigma Despite Scotland having Talent is everywhere. Oppor- We have high aspirations of that all people have the same every year more people in surrounding people affected some of the most progressive tunity isn’t. We look to redress all people involved in Social fundamental needs and rights. Scotland are struggling to feed by homelessness. They are homelessness legislation the balance by giving people Bite. Don’t just come and get Our basic needs of food and themselves and their families. labelled, blamed for their in the world, there are still affected by homelessness real a meal, when you’re ready shelter are human rights, along There has been a rise in the own situations and written hundreds of people sleeping jobs in a real commercial en- serve a meal to others. Don’t with the right to feel safe. These numbers using food banks and off. Rough sleepers tell us rough in our major cities vironment. We believe the best just get clean, get healthy and are the fundamental building some schools are reporting of humiliating physical and each night and many more place to learn how to work is in build great relationships. Don’t blocks of life and without that children are coming to verbal abuse and of the pain people trapped in unsuitable a job, so we provide as many just get any job, work towards them we are unable to form school starving. In many areas of simply being ignored. temporary accommodation, real, paying jobs as possible. a job that’s going to inspire relationships or find purpose. wages have not kept pace without a stable platform and sustain you through life. with rising costs and there The reality is that many on which to build a life. We encourage people to At Social Bite, we meet many are large numbers of families people’s histories are dark. volunteer so they can give back We aim to foster leadership people who are missing many suffering from in work poverty. They have suffered abuse and In 2018, our work accelerated to others who’ve experienced in everyone involved. Give or all of these building blocks The situation is even worse neglect in childhood and have to provide real homes to the same issues and so they people a stake and a voice and we work with them to help for those who do not have experienced chronic poverty. people in need. A safe place can stand as role models for to influence what we’re them build up their capacity, a place to call home. Many They have been trapped in a to live is the cornerstone of a others on a similar journey. doing and a role in ending resources and relationships. cannot afford to eat and are homelessness system that good life and we have been homelessness in Scotland. surviving in places where they has damaged their mental working relentlessly to get We wrap extensive support A house is not enough. Recently don’t have access to cooking and physical health and they more people in need access around our job and volunteer we were fortunate to host Nobel facilities and can’t cook proper have been offered no real help. to a home. opportunities so that people Laureate Malala Yousafzai who meals. We meet hundreds of can put in place the other spoke of her own experience people each week in need of Social Bite offers acceptance building blocks of their lives. of homelessness. She wasn’t food. Food is not just a physical and a warm welcome to on the streets but was living necessity, it is also connecting people, who in most other in crowded conditions with a us to one another. Sharing food situations are invisible, relative, with no access to any and eating together creates disrespected or rejected. We of the things she associated acceptance and friendship. We believe strongly that people are with home. Her words were: welcome people into our warm people and there is no divide. “Even in the presence of shelter cafes and provide hot, healthy Everyone has value and we you can still feel homeless”. and filling food to people who all have something to offer. are hungry. We offer breakfast We take these words to heart. from 8am, the time most A roof over someone’s head people have to leave their B&Bs is essential but we aspire to and in the afternoons, Social more than that. We recognise Scran, is served from 3.30pm - the imperative of good, trusted 4pm, ensuring access to a hot relationships and the strength meal for those who want it. Dr Adam Burley, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, provides training on and support these provide in Psychologically Informed Environments as well as reflective practice finding purpose and joy in life. sessions for the Social Bite team. He highlights the fundamental nature of relationships when he says: “ Our approach is deliberately aspirational. We focus on people’s strengths and we ust as breathing is essential for physical J have high hopes for those life, human relationships are essential to we support and employ, firmly believing that through psychological development and well-being.” consistent, compassionate support we can enable individuals to discover the value and purpose in their own lives. SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
14 15 Social Bite A Pay-It-Forward scheme is available in all cafes Free Food – *John’s Story “ and our restaurant, Vesta, which enables our On my first day of being homeless I was sat customers to pay for an extra hot drink, snack Programmes outside a vacant shop opposite Social Bite or meal for a homeless person. Not only does on Rose St. A Social Bite staff member on this help customers feel closer to, and involved, break spoke to me and told me about Social in our mission it also helps those who need the Bite and free food. She asked me if I was service realise that people care and want to help. hungry and wanted a hot drink. She went into the shop and came back out with a Our free food programme is based on bacon roll and hot chocolate. a deliberately non-judgemental ethos whereby we offer food to anyone who She told me about free food and where I is in need without asking questions. We could go for help. break down barriers creating a warm welcoming environment for everyone. I didn’t know where to go or anything about being homeless and I was still really down After wide consultation with people who use so all I heard was free food. our free food provision, we have recently improved this service, now known as Social After two days, I spoke to someone else who Scran. We believe these changes better was homeless and he introduced me to one accommodate the needs of rough sleepers of the support workers at Social Bite and she and those in temporary accommodation; who has been helping me ever since.” can now join us for breakfast between 08:00 – 11:00 and return for our 3.30pm offering of hot meals and sandwiches to take away. Pay-It-Forward board in cafe Free Food Give Away Our programme of work to support and develop people affected by 16000 homelessness mirrors the different blocks of our pyramid of change. 14000 12000 Food & Shelter: Free Food Programme In 2018 we gave away 139,732 food 10000 Food is one of the fundamental and drink items to people in need. We 8000 building blocks to life, not only do currently provide on average 2800 free we need it on a basic physiological food and drink items to around 420 6000 level, as research shows, it is also tool people per week across Edinburgh, 4000 in connecting us to one another. Glasgow and Aberdeen. We use food as 2000 an engagement tool – we meet people’s 0 Our cafes and our restaurant Vesta are basic needs for food and shelter and at r er st b r ch ril ne ly ay r n be be be Fe gu in city centre locations making them the same time build positive relationships Ja ob Ju Ap ar Ju M em em em Au ct M easily accessible for people in need. with individuals. Those relationships O pt ov ec Se N D They are at the heart of our work and are key and a first step to supporting are the base from which we provide individuals in making a change. FIGURE 3: FREE FOOD ITEMS GIVEN AWAY IN 2018 FIGURE 3: FREE FOOD ITEMS GIVEN AWAY IN 2018 free food support and opportunities. WE GIVE AWAY LESS ITEMS IN DECEMBER AS SOCIAL BITE SOCIAL BITE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE IS CLOSE FORWE 2 WEEKS GIVE FOLLOWING AWAY LESSCHRISTMAS ITEMS IN DAY TO ENABLE DECEMBER ASSTAFF TO TAKE SOCIAL BITEASOCIAL HOLIDAYENTERPRISE IS CLOSED FOR 2 WEEKS FOLLOWING CHRISTMAS DAY TO ENABLE STAFF TO TAKE A HOLIDAY. SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
16 17 Friendship & Fun: Partnerships at Social Suppers Prep Table, an organisation empowering people Social Suppers through food, which has become very popular – we have an average of seven people attending this monthly cooking event. Prep Table at Social Bite is creating a sense of community amongst the people that attend, all sharing and/or discovering an interest in good food from around the world, good music and good conversation. We invited Fresh Start to attend our Women’s Suppers, to promote their course – Jumpstart, a range of training programmes designed to develop personal effectiveness, motivation, skills and employability. Two of our regular female attendees successfully completed the SQA Personal Development Award. Monthly visits from the NHS nurse gave women the opportunity to discuss any concern related to sexual health. This partnership with the NHS provided staff members and volunteers the opportunity to take part in Sexual Health Training at the Chalmers Sexual Health Centre, six team members participated in this training; enabling greater support for women who attend our Suppers events. Guests at Social Scran Every week we host Social Supper events in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, welcoming over 180 people to a warm, relaxed environment of good food, community, and support. These events are run by our Training and Support Workers, alongside a team of dedicated volunteers. In addition, we invite partner organisations to join our events to provide tailored support and advice to people attending. The events are designed to be fun and informal and often incorporate extra elements such as book club, haircuts and cooking. Woman enjoying tea party before treatments at Lush Spa Prep Table event at Social Bite Rose Street SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
18 Friendship and Fun: Social Suppers 19 A significant partnership with Victim Support started in In Aberdeen, we host a Social Supper 2018 after one of our drivers delivered a catering order and event once a week where we see an talked about his personal story of how he was affected by average of 17 people attending. homelessness. A Victim Support representative has become a familiar face at the Women’s Suppers and the aim of this In Edinburgh, we host 3 Social Supper events partnership is to provide support to victims of crime. Women every week including a weekly two-course meal, were provided with panic alarms which can be used in a risky each Monday, at our Vesta restaurant. The event situation to draw attention. We continue to work with Victim promotes an idea of dining with dignity to people Support on defining a clear pathway for reporting crime. who may not otherwise get the opportunity to enjoy a delicious sit-down meal in a high-quality Our work with vulnerable women has been strongly supported restaurant. On average there are 37 people by LUSH (cosmetics retailer). LUSH provides women with attending the event at Vesta each week. We toiletry products as well as opening their spa three times a also host an event every Tuesday, welcoming an year. In 2018 we celebrated International Women’s Day with average of 46 people weekly, this is in addition Lush, as well as Marks & Spencer who offered bra fitting, to the women’s only event each Wednesday and we also invited Hey Girls who fight period poverty. with an average of 11 people attending. Each week, we welcome around 100 people across As part of the on-going partnership between Cyrenians and our various Social Supper events in Edinburgh. Social Bite, Nick Harold, Outreach Worker at Cyrenians Homeless Navigator Project, conducted, 3 outreach information sessions In Glasgow, we host Social Supper events on a Sing along at Social Suppers with Social Bite’s staff and volunteers, as well as with other invited Monday and Friday evening with an average of individuals from relevant partner agencies. These sessions 68 people attending across both nights. We also involved a two-hour walk around the city centre, where Nick hold a women’s only event every Tuesday, with explained how and why Cyrenians Navigator Project work is approximately 10 women attending each week. essential, giving examples of the realities of street-life, discussed the housing system and how it works for the people we support. One regular guest shared: “ Our partnership working approach spans beyond charities and his place is a small island of peace and T retail, inviting all sectors of society to join our movement to people (I) feel safe and welcome in a busy end homelessness in Scotland. 2018 saw a partnership develop cold city. Thank you to all who give up your with CMS, top 10 Global law firm, who have provided pro-bono time to help others 10/10”. legal support and employee volunteering opportunities. Over the past year, 10 of their team have become regular volunteers at our Social Supper events in Glasgow and Edinburgh. We start by getting to know people’s names and what they like in their tea. We get to know Social Supper events in Glasgow “ each other over the weekly quiz or have a dance to the live music at our Social Supper Social Bite are doing amazing work to end events. Over time, our relationship grows to homelessness in Scotland. Our people have embraced finding out how we might help people get the support they need or to find an opportunity Social Bite’s mission and have been contributing to connect to work or volunteering. in a variety of different ways including fundraising, volunteering, sponsorship and awareness raising. We all have our part to play and, CMS are proud to be supporters of Social Bite’s work.” CMS, Glasgow SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
20 Friendship and Fun: Social Suppers 21 Sometimes our staff support people Referrals classed as ‘Other’ include those made Christmas Activities directly with issues and other times they to organisations helping people who are at risk Community and celebration are central to our ethos. Christmas refer people to partner organisations, who of violence, dealing with debts and/or needing can be a particularly lonely time, over the past five years we provide support and opportunities. access to basic amenities and services such have hosted festivities on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in as hairdressers. The range of referrals illustrate Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow, for people who have nowhere In 2018, we made 161 referrals to help the vast array of needs but also the person- else to go. These are days unlike any other, it is more than a people access support as shown below: centered approach that Training and Support meal, it is a chance to get together with friends old and new, to Workers are taking when working with people. enjoy live music, some dancing, presents, and a three-course Housing/tenancy support does not include The Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings. These celebrations are Social Bite Village or Housing First programme. made possible by the generosity of people across the country who bought a voucher for a meal or present through our partners Itison. com, or paid it forward in restaurants across Scotland, as well as an army of our volunteers and staff team who wrapped, prepped, and peeled vegetables for days to make these events happen. Types of Support Provided (No. of People) Other Food bank/clothing Addiction Immigration /asylum Health Legal/benefits Employment/training Housing/ tenancy support 0 10 20 30 40 50 FIGURE 4: TABLE OF TYPES OF SUPPORT FIGURE 5: TABLE OF TYPES OF SUPPORT Christmas festivities at Social Bite SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
22 23 A Home to Live In: In 2017, Social Bite hosted Sleep in the Park - a The project’s primary goal is to enable Housing First Scotland mass participation event and, set an ambitious 830 people with complex needs who are vision to lead a movement to end homelessness experiencing homelessness to access a in Scotland by generating funds, awareness permanent home with extensive support for as and action across all sections of society. With long as is needed. This Housing First approach that goal in mind, Social Bite commissioned will help people with multiple support needs, who a key report by Heriot-Watt University entitled have been failed by the homelessness system, “Eradicating ‘Core Homelessness’ in Scotland’s to access and maintain mainstream housing Four Largest Cities: Providing an Evidence as well as improve their health, relationships Base and Guiding a Funding Framework”. The and engagement in meaningful activity. report concluded that Social Bite could make Evidence shows that Housing First is singularly a significant impact on improving outcomes effective in helping people with complex needs for the most vulnerable people in Scotland to sustain a tenancy - resulting in an 80-90% by investing in a Housing First approach. tenancy sustainment rate after 2 years. During 2018, based on Heriot-Watt University’s academic research recommendations, Social Bite decided to invest a significant proportion of the unrestricted funds raised by Sleep in the Park in the creation of our Housing First project. Social Bite has played a catalytic role in the establishment of the Housing First in Scotland as a key member of the Scottish Government’s Homelessness And Rough Sleeping Action Group. Social Bite, in partnership with Corra Foundation and Glasgow Homelessness Network (GHN) launched The Housing First Scotland Fund, which will be one of the largest programmes of its kind in the UK. The Programme aims to bring hundreds of people sleeping rough and those caught in the homeless system into secure and supported long-term tenancies. At Social Bite we are working collaboratively to ensure everyone in Scotland has a safe place to call home, we believe this is not only a basic human right, but it is essential in creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to reach their potential. Over the past few years this mission has seen Social Bite pioneer two initiatives, Housing First Scotland and the Social Bite Village, which are not only transforming lives but also generating much needed systemic change. SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
24 A Home to Live In: Housing First Scotland 25 Social Bite believes this project signifies the The other significant contributor of funds is Key elements of collaboration include: Delivery Partners: dawning of a new era in how Scotland responds The Merchants House of Glasgow. The Scottish Consortia of leading homelessness providers to the systemic issue of homelessness. The Government officially backed the programme • Alignment with the Scottish Government’s have been selected to deliver Housing First in project’s wider goal is to act as a catalyst for and has pledged £4M to the first two years of Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Action the five project locations: the adoption of Housing First across all 32 the programme and an additional £2.5M for Group (HARSAG). HARSAG was a short-life Scottish local authorities, so it becomes the year three to support the transition to local strategic group convened by the Scottish Glasgow led by Turning Point primary model for combating homelessness authority mainstreaming of rapid rehousing. Government between November 2017 and May Scotland with a consortium as experienced by the most vulnerable 2018 with the aim of developing a strategy comprised of Simon Community people. We aim to cause a structural shift The substantial developments made in 2018 for ending homelessness in Scotland. Social Scotland, The Salvation away from the use of unsuitable temporary towards rapid rehousing using the Housing Bite was a member of this group, which Army and Loretto Care accommodation that perpetuates repeat First principles is testament to the collaborative ensured our efforts to establish a Housing First homelessness, towards people being housed working of many organisations across the project were aligned with national strategy. Edinburgh led by Edinburgh as quickly as possible in permanent homes sector. The voluntary sector, government and Cyrenians with a consortium with appropriate wrap-around support. academic partners are strongly aligned in their • Social Bite has obtained pledges of comprised of Turning Point commitment to make Housing First a reality. permanent housing for the project from Scotland, Rock Trust, Streetwork, The investment of £3 million, by Social Bite, in diverse providers. This includes EdIndex Bethany Christian Trust, Gowrie to the Housing First Pathfinders project saw a consortium of 20 housing associations in Care and Barony Care significant progression in a journey which began Edinburgh and the Wheatley Group. with Turning Point Scotland who ran a small Dundee led by Transform Housing First pilot project almost ten years ago. • Social Bite has commissioned Glasgow Community Development Homelessness Network (GHN) to coordinate with a consortium comprised the delivery of the Housing First Project. GHN of Salvation Army Dundee, is Scotland’s leading network for voluntary Dundee Survival Group sector homelessness organisations and has (DSG) and Addaction been a long-time advocate of Housing First. Aberdeen led by Aberdeen • Social Bite has commissioned The Corra Cyrenians with a consortium Foundation to support the process by which comprised of Aberdeen consortia would be selected to run Housing Foyer, Turning Point Scotland, First in the five project locations. Corra Aberdeen City Council Housing Foundation is also managing reporting by Support Department and the 5 consortia and grant administration. Aberdeenshire Council • Turning Point Scotland is delivering a Stirling led by Loretto Care with consistent training programme to all Barony Care offering support providers. Turning Point Scotland (TPS) has been running a successful Housing First programme in Glasgow since 2010 for 22 individuals and has expert knowledge in how to successfully implement the approach. Housing First Pathfinder’s Event in Dundee Doug Gibson, Housing First Pathfinder Programme Manager • Heriot-Watt University will be carrying out an external evaluation of the project starting in January 2019. Heriot-Watt University are the pre-eminent research body in the UK for homelessness research. Maggie-Ann Brunjes, Glasgow Homeless Network CEO & Dame Louise Casey, World’s Big Sleepout Trust Chairperson SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
26 A Home to Live In: Housing First Scotland 27 Progress to date: Significantly, Housing First treats homelessness the public purse after an initial set up and Phase One of the project began in August 2018. Importantly, the number of tenancies sustained as a social justice issue and ensures each transitional period of approximately two years. Consortia in each of the five areas worked to so far is 100% of the total tenancies started. person is given choices of where to live and finalise local structures and processes in order No tenancies have been ended so far as a the wrap-around support they need. At organisation level, the project will develop to ramp up delivery of Housing First tenancies result of eviction, abandonment or planned a new generation of specialist Housing First in 2019. move and so there have been no subsequent There is a significant wider community benefit providers, who will be trained in Housing homelessness applications made as a result of to the project in that it will support people First Principles, with each Key Worker The progress to date (February someone leaving their Housing First tenancy. to improve their health and well-being, their supporting up to 7 people. They will deliver 2019) in individuals housed is: relationships and engagement in meaningful all the support services through consortia activity. In this way, the project will help of 20 organisations across the 5 cities. Aberdeen/shire: 5 in tenancies individuals build positive connections in their Dundee: 2 in tenancies community – in some cases supporting them to At a systems level we aim to cause a shift Edinburgh: 9 in tenancies reconnect with friends and family and in other towards Housing First as a default solution, Glasgow: 27 in tenancies cases helping them create new social networks rather than forcing vulnerable homeless people Stirling: 3 in tenancies and contribute through paid and voluntary work. into unsupported congregated hostels and stigmatising accommodation. We are confident Equally, the project will help to reduce the that this fundamental shift will be maintained significant hidden costs of the current system, due to vastly improved outcomes produced which contributes to vulnerable individuals’ and net savings to the public purse. The Scottish contact with accident and emergency services, Government has also committed to the adoption crisis mental health services and the criminal of the Housing First model across all 32 local Housing First Monthly Tenancy Tracker Targets justice system. International evidence shows authority areas, so we intend for the project to Year 1 : April 2019 - March 2020 | Year 2 : April 2020 - March 2021 that significant savings can be made to have a national impact in the longer-term. 830 728 626 525 424 328 232 145 76 To March Q1 (Year 1) Q2 (year 1) Q3 (year 1) Q4 (year 1) Q1 (Year 2) Q2 (Year 2) Q3 (Year 2) Q4 (Year 4) (2019) Hearing from people with lived experience at Housing First Pathfinder’s event in Dundee FIGURE 5: HOUSING FIRST PATHFINDER’S PROJECT - MONTHLY TENANCY TRACKER SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
28 29 Housing First – Mick’s Story After losing his wife, kids, home, and job; he found himself homeless. Now, Mick is an example of how When I first presented myself Scotland is leading the way in the movement to ensure as homeless to the council safe and settled homes for society’s most vulnerable. office, they told me to go to a hotel for two nights. But when I turned up, I wasn’t on the register so they wouldn’t let me in. And because it was the weekend, there was no one to call to sort things so I had to sleep rough; although I didn’t sleep. People on the homeless scene know the best places to go, but I’ve worked all my life so never expected to find myself on the streets and hadn’t a clue. I kept going “ Now I have my own flat I’m grateful for small things, like in to McDonald’s for warmth being able to make myself a and coffee and took all-day bus rides. I was glad to have cup of tea in peace. And for a bed in the Salvation Army the much bigger things, like accommodation but locked myself in my room to keep having my son to visit.” myself to myself. People chapped my door every half hour, so it was impossible to have peace. Visitors weren’t allowed so I couldn’t see my son. That was the worst thing. My neighbours are lovely and I spent nights under bridges having peace helps me feel not just because of the shelter I’m desperate to get back to normal again. I appreciate but because I could hide in the work and am being supported small things, like being able to dark and cry. I felt ashamed, through treatment for a long- have a quiet cup of tea. And drained, heartbroken, horrible term stomach condition, which I love cleaning and tidying - and disgusting. I’d worked means I keep vomiting and although I never let the flat all my life but in a space of a can’t eat properly. get untidy. Best of all is being week, after my marriage able to have my son here - broke down, I lost everything. Now I have my own flat I’m I’m only a five-minute walk grateful for small things, like away. Having my wee boy When I was homeless, I felt being able to make myself a here on his eighth birthday, hopeless and worthless. cup of tea in peace. And for just playing games with him, Now my self-esteem and the much bigger things, like was one of the proudest confidence have built back up. having my son to visit. moments of my life.” SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
30 31 A Home to Live In: Social Bite Village FIGURE 6: VILLAGE MODEL At the end of 2018, there were 18 Community In addition, there is an active weekly Members at the Social Bite Village. There are timetable including opportunities ranging 14 males and 4 females, with the average from yoga, ‘daily mile’, and bike rides, to a age of a Community Member being 40. cooking club and DJ sessions. We anticipate Community members will live at the Village The 18 existing Community Members were for approximately 12-18 months. Over this referred through various channels: time, people will contribute to the life of the community, learn a range of new skills and * 6 self-referrals engage in work and voluntary placements. * 3 Social Bite referrals * 9 Agency referrals (3 x Crisis, 3 x Your After 12-18 months, we will support residents The Social Bite Village is an innovative, highly supported community for Home, 1 x Link-up, 1 x City of Edinburgh into permanent accommodation and support up to 20 people affected by homelessness. The purpose of the Village Council, North West, 1 x NHS) them to make this transition ‘stick’. As each person moves on, a new Community Member is to offer the right support, living environment and opportunities for Five Community Members have already will join to be supported and mentored by someone from a situation of homelessness to build an independent life. secured paid employment, while a further their fellow community members. Community five have enrolled on courses at nearby Members are people who were currently living The idea for Social Bite Village came out of conversations Social Bite had Edinburgh College or the Open University. in temporary/emergency accommodation with people supported by and employed in our social enterprises, who including homeless hostels and B&Bs. had experience of living in temporary accommodation. They told us that B&B accommodation does not provide a suitable platform for people to escape from homelessness so we took action. The Village is made up of 10 ‘NestHouses’ – each shared by two residents plus an additional unit for staff. There is also a large, central Community Hub, which is the focus of community life – where residents can cook, eat and socialise together. The Hub is also the base for much of our training and support activities. Social Bite Village: Community Hub, Gardens & Nesthouse kitchen SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
32 A Home to Live In: The Social Bite Village 33 The Village is designed to be an active and highly supportive community. We have Social Bite Village – Alistair’s Story Alistair moved into the Village after losing his Social Bite Village: Logic Model engaged partners, Cyrenians, to provide job and experiencing a family breakdown a highly skilled and experienced staff and meaning he could no longer stay there. Situation volunteer team at the Village. Staff and Homeless people are housed in emergency/ temporary accommodation with limited opportunity volunteers are crucial in providing positive He had no social circle or close friendships to establish healthy routines or to work towards or sustain happy, active independent lives. role models to residents, running a health when he moved into the Village. However, and wellbeing programme as well as being a he had already started volunteering with consistent and supportive presence on site. Social Bite. Alistair has quickly adapted to Inputs Outputs living in this community environment. Activities Participants Highly skilled Support Staff What we do Who we reach He is learning new life skills and attends a Diverse and skilled Volunteers Intensive one-to-one work In addition, Hillcrest Housing Association is a weekly cooking club within the village. Alistair Quality living environment (Nesthouse) People housed in emergency/ Role modelling of healthy behaviours and routines temporary accommodation partner in the project and provides a Housing is now starting to volunteer with Cyrenians Community Hub and grounds by staff and volunteers Officer who manages each resident’s occupancy. cooking classes at their depot. He enjoys Connections, opportunities and resources People interested in living in and Co-creation of community and peer support contributing to a community Hillcrest also provide facilities management walking and taking part in the ‘daily mile’ on the in wider community/from partners Community wellbeing activities for the Village ensuring the buildings and site Health and Wellbeing programme. He goes for Community meals are maintained to the highest standard. walks with the Village dogs when available. Community chores/rota Support into employment, external volunteering Alistair has also been successful in and education/training securing a part time job and has been Connect Community Members to wider communi- enjoying his time there and is enjoying the ty and social networks purpose and income this generates. Social Bite believes for a community to be truly transformational, it is fundamental that We are now planning on supporting Alistair Community Members are involved in the shaping to learn how to ride a bike. Assumptions: All Community Members have assets (strengths) they can build on in order to establish happy and healthy lives; and forming of it, at every stage. The Social Bite the best way to inspire change is long-term, holistic and person-centred support and to provide positive and diverse role models that support the change process. Village is an experimental project, built upon the Play Watch a video of Alistair’s story here expertise and lived experience of those who have created similar developments. The journey of the Outcomes for Community Members community so far, has been largely positive, with Short Term (1 mth) Medium Term (6 mths) Long Term (12 mths+) many lives being transformed. However, as with any environment that brings together people Understanding of Outcomes Star areas Gains in 8 Outcome Star areas: Sustained progress in medium term out- and completion of action plan towards • Motivation and taking responsibility comes plus: from different backgrounds, experiences, with personal goals • Self-care and living skills Achievement and maintenance of inde- varying preferences and habits; the community Set up on appropriate benefits • Managing money and personal administration pendent /move on housing out with the • Social networks and relationships has gone through a natural process of forming Raised awareness of healthy boundaries • Drug and alcohol misuse Village and norming, with ebbs and flows of struggle and routines • Physical health • Emotional and mental health and celebration as people have adjusted to, Positive, new peer relationships/social • Meaningful use of time networks and at times struggled with, community life. • Managing tenancy and accommodation • Offending Confidence and self-esteem gained from contributing to running of Community The Social Bite Village was built thanks to Confidence gained from peer leadership a massive collective effort from a range of Completion of meaningful of activity – employment, companies and individuals, supplying everything volunteering, education and achievement of accred- ited training/qualifications from windows to project management expertise. The project spurred the public’s imagination and stands as a tangible symbol for hope and doing things differently. External factors: Impact of HRSAG recommendations/Scottish Gov’s policies/Interaction with Housing First Programme FIGURE 7: VILLAGE LOGIC MODEL SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
34 35 Opportunity: Social Bite Academy follows a ‘Place and Train’ model - providing real jobs to people with Five Star Employees The following chart illustrates progress made Social Bite Academy extensive support alongside this to help people address barriers or issues in their wider lives. by *Jack who has sustained employment with Social Bite for 5 months to date. The chart helps to demonstrate how consistent and reliable We believe giving people a job and working he has been as an employee in the time he to make it ‘stick’ is the most effective way has been with us to date. The Feedback Loop is of helping people with complex needs carried out with the supported employee, the access and maintain employment. Unit Manager and Training and Support Worker. Colin, Team member When things don’t work according to plan we don’t turn people away. Making mistakes is natural and being supported through them is part of the process which leads to trust and resilience. Mimi, Manager at Rose Street cafe FIGURE 8: FEEDBACK LOOP Social Bite Academy is an initiative run by Social Bite aimed at supporting people affected by homelessness into employment, providing a The below picture shows the ‘ideal’ pipe purposeful platform for individuals transform their own life. line of engagement, however people join us at various stages of the journey. The people we support would normally face insurmountable barriers to work. We provide a highly supportive and real, commercial environment where people can re-engage with work or, in many cases, start working for the first time. Work placements are offered for up to 21 months with a view to supporting people to move on to further employment or indeed to remain at Social Bite in a permanent role, dependent upon their interests, hopes and career plans. FIGURE 9: SOCIAL BITE ACADEMY PIPELINE SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
36 Opportunity: Social Bite Academy 37 Social Bite Academy – *Maggie’s Story “During my time working with Social Bite I My manager knew my worries about going straight back into working with the public so Purpose & Opportunity: Volunteering Programme was made homeless. Within 24 hours my instead I was put on a placement to work manager at the time, Barbara Haig, was with alongside The Edinburgh Remakery. During me supporting and guiding me. Barbara took the next few weeks not only was I back me to the council and answered questions I working but it helped me so much more than didn’t know how to answer. Once settled into a the obvious, it helped me get back into a women’s hostel my mental health deteriorated, routine, it helped me overcome the anxieties I felt at that moment in time at my lowest. of leaving the house, to eat meals again. I finally got the keys to my own place last May Fast forward a few months and I am still in and felt like I was being dealt some good luck therapy and working on me. Looking back to see (and boy did I need it!). Once I started to settle how far I had came and it was all thanks to the into my new forever home it all hit me at full support from social bite and the academy. They speed the last year of hell that I had gone didn’t judge me, or make me feel uncomfortable, through. My mental health took a bad turn which they hired me and took a risk. I am hoping they resulted in me attempting to take my own life. I will say it paid off as now I have got my own was given time off work to ensure I get better. place, a little kitten Rainbow and I am now a support worker helping others achieve the best During this time my manager met with me possible life. I am in the process of looking into and family members and my mental health setting up my own social enterprise called team to put a plan in place for my recovery. ReadySteadyBreathe to help others with mental health.” The below Outcomes Star, is part of a family of evidence-based tools for supporting and measuring change when working with people. It is underpinned by three values – empowerment, collaboration and integration. This Outcome Star clearly tracks the significant growth Maggie made as part of the Social Bite Academy. Volunteers at Sleep in the Park 2018 We believe volunteering plays a significant role in changing perceptions and the shifting narrative around homelessness. People are people despite whatever issues they might be facing and when they work alongside each other this can make a massive difference in reducing stigma and promoting understanding. FIGURE 10: OUTCOME STAR **BLUE LINE IDENTIFYING FIRST OUTCOME STAR AND GREEN LINE IDENTIFYING FINAL OUTCOME STAR OF MAGGIE’S SOCIAL BITE ACADEMY JOURNEY. (1 BEING THE LOWEST AND 10 BEING THE HIGHEST). SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
38 Purpose & Opportunity: Volunteering Programme 39 “ During 2018, Social Bite worked with over 350 I help serve out food and hot drinks and Supported Volunteering volunteers who gave over 15200 hours; this chat to people at the Social Scran sessions People affected by homelessness are given a ranged from leadership and industry expertise in the Rose Street Cafe. There are several chance to volunteer at our Social Suppers events. as a member of one of our three boards, to reasons I wanted to get involved - I am gardening at the Social Bite Village and weekly concerned about the numbers of people We believe that volunteering is a great volunteering at our Social Supper events. who are homeless. I have previously opportunity to gain new skills and experience, volunteered as a cook in a hostel in another as well as offering an outlet to give something Each week across Aberdeen, Edinburgh, city and that experience was enjoyable back to others. We are committed to supporting and Glasgow we have over 35 volunteers and interesting; my work contract ended people and helping them develop their skills. working alongside our Training and Support recently so I want to use this time for We also strive to promote individuals’ strengths, Workers to deliver the Social Supper events; something positive and not just on job providing an encouraging environment to try these would not be possible without the hunting; I love Edinburgh and want it to new things. In 2018, there were 28 supported dedicated commitment of these volunteers. be the best city it can for everyone. I’m volunteers engaged with Social Bite across learning, meeting people and have Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Sleep in the Park’s 2018 team comprised a sense of purpose.” of over 200 volunteers who generously supported the event by handing out Sian, regular volunteer bivvy bags, providing hot drinks, giving with Social Bite directions, and answering questions. Meet George, one of our Supported Volunteers: Volunteers not only provide invaluable support 4. Tea or coffee? 8. Best moment of volunteering across all areas of Social Bite, we also believe I drink both. I’ve got to be in with Social Bite? volunteering is an essential opportunity and the mood for a cup of tea. I think it would have to be platform to engage the general public and shift being part of the team helping perceptions around the issue of homelessness. 5. When did you start at Sleep in the Park 2018 in volunteering? Edinburgh. I got to meet loads I can remember the exact date, of new people and felt part it was 8th August 2015 (one of of something pretty special. our longest serving volunteers) 9. Best thing about Social 6. Why did you want to Suppers? volunteer with Social Bite? It’s cool, everyone gets on Well I used to be homeless well (well most of the time!). myself, in a couple of People leave their troubles different hostels. Once I got at the door, it feels like a safe somewhere to live, I wanted place for people to be honest to do something with my and be themselves. I feel 1. Cats or dogs? days so went to the volunteer like I am doing something I’ve had both…not centre, they told me about that makes a difference. sure I can choose Social Bite. First, I came for food, then asked to volunteer. 10. Sum up Social Suppers in 2. Sweet or savoury? three words… Oh…it has to be sweet! 7. What do you most enjoy It’s absolutely brilliant! about your role? 3. Favourite film? Everything, but especially I have two…has to be Snow (enjoy it) when you get to Dogs and Fast & Furious have good banter with the Social Scran volunteers CMS volunteers & Academy team member gardening at Social Bite Village (well, all of them!) people who come in. SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
40 41 Building a Movement Sleep in the Park In a post-event survey, we asked participants of Sleep in the Park 2018 “What, if anything, did the to End Homelessness In December 2017, 8,000 people joined the world’s largest sleep out in Princes St Gardens to call event make you think about homelessness?”, for an end to homelessness in Scotland. The this question was met with a resounding campaign caused a sea change in the fight belief that change is possible, a shift in against homelessness and funded a raft of understanding and strong voice of solidarity: major projects, including: the commissioning of “ 3 major academic studies to give a road map Humbling experience. Especially hearing to end homelessness in Scotland, expanding stories from previously homeless people. the capacity of the Edinburgh Winter Night Hadn’t considered what they did to stay Shelter, the creation of Housing First Scotland, occupied during day. Was aware of others and the opening of the Social Bite Village. indifference to them and this was confirmed by their stories. It could be fixed if society Building on 2017’s momentum, Sleep in was less selfish and made a collaborative the Park 2018 was the largest ever event effort to resolve and stop stigmatising of its type. Saturday 8th December saw people who are homeless. Change is 10,000 people join together to petition for possible.” Sleep in the Park 2018 participant an end to homelessness, for good. “ The public perception of homeless people We hosted four events, one in each major is that it is due to their life choices, however, Scottish city. Each featured a busker set this event highlighted that this just is not from superstar local and national acts, a the case. People deserve and need better bedtime story from an iconic local figure and, support from the government and local importantly, the voices of people who have services. Homelessness can be avoided experienced homelessness and housing given the correct support.” insecurity. The crowds who joined for the Sleep in the Park 2018 participant night also included over 400 people who are currently experiencing homelessness. We believe change is possible and is in fact inevitable. Building a collaborative movement Sleep in the Park 2018 raised funds for Social that invites and encourages every sector, Bite’s programmes in 2019, particularly Housing industry, and individual to do what they can, First, and made sure the political spotlight with what they have, to see homelessness remains fixed on the issue of homelessness ended in Scotland. It is human nature to Crowd at Sleep in the Park Edinburgh in Scotland. feel helpless and overwhelmed by issues in society. Sleep in The Park offered a unique Sleep in the Park is not an exercise in pretending opportunity for people to join a mass movement to be homeless. An event like this can never to raise funds, raise their voices, and raise Jobs and sandwiches alone can’t end homelessness. We must change recreate the true experience of homelessness, homelessness further up the political agenda. the whole ‘homelessness system’ if we are to end homelessness. it undoubtedly can generate awareness and empathy and keeps the spotlight firmly on a This year in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Social Bite has recognised that collaboration is the only way situation which we believe should not exist in Dundee 10,000 people joined the movement; homelessness in Scotland can be ended. We aspire to work alongside this country. with many more sponsoring, donating and providing encouragement; collectively raising the country’s most committed leaders and organisations to change the £3.65m. The impact of mass engagement system. As Malala Yousafzai told us: “Change is possible. All it requires is events such as Sleep in the Park is difficult dedication and patience and hope.” to quantify. It can be estimated that the campaign made an impression on over 10 million people, which includes both on and offline mass media campaigns. SOCIAL BITE IMPACT REPORT 2018-19 REGISTERED CHARITY IN SCOTLAND. SC045232
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