50 Years of Impact: Paul Sweeney MSP backs Blue Triangle’s fight against homelessness

Blue Triangle marked its 50th anniversary yesterday at the Scottish Parliament against the backdrop of Scotland’s growing homelessness crisis. Hosted by Paul Sweeney MSP and with a speech by Maree Todd, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, the event celebrated five decades of life-changing support for Scotland’s most vulnerable, while highlighting the urgent need for action. 

Maree Todd, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, said: “I wish to congratulate Blue Triangle on their fifty-year milestone, during which time they have provided excellent social care services. The work of staff on the front line is incredibly important, especially as they support some of the most vulnerable members of our society. Blue Triangle has impacted the lives of many people, made possible by the dedication of their services across Scotland.” 

During his recent visit to Blue Triangle’s Sauchiehall Street supported accommodation, Paul Sweeney MSP witnessed first-hand the dedication of staff and the challenges facing those experiencing homelessness. He met Sean, a young person supported by the charity, who shared his journey and the stark reality of Scotland’s housing crisis. Sweeney praised Blue Triangle’s unique 24/7 support model and called for greater investment in services that help people rebuild their lives. 

Paul Sweeney MSP said: “I was delighted to host Blue Triangle at Holyrood to mark their 50th year anniversary. In the midst of a housing crisis, the work that Blue Triangle provides is more essential than ever. During my visit, I had the opportunity to meet passionate staff, who are champions for the people they support despite the many barriers facing them. I was also honoured to meet Sean, who shared his personal story with me. Despite the challenges he has faced, he now looks forward to a brighter future, with hopes and aspirations for what comes next—all thanks to Blue Triangle’s support. 

Blue Triangle’s unique model as a social care organisation and Registered Social Landlord offers them the opportunity to provide solutions to the current housing shortage, as well as preparing people for their own tenancy. Their holistic approach addresses the root causes of homelessness, breaking the cycle and fostering long-term stability.” 

Gary Meek CEO said: “We want to thank Paul Sweeney and Maree Todd for welcoming us at the Scottish Parliament. Blue Triangle has expanded and adapted to meet the challenges of homelessness and addiction over the last five decades. We are delighted to mark the occasion of our 50th and we look forward to providing more supported accommodation and continuing our excellent work across Scotland. We will continue to tackle poverty, reduce inequality and build sustainable cities and communities.” 

Blue Triangle currently runs 29 services across 10 local authorities. Originally incorporated through the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), Blue Triangle provided services through one property in Glasgow for young single women. In 1991, it became its own legal entity when it split from the YWCA. The organisation now supports people of all genders who are experiencing homelessness, as well as care-experienced young people and refugees.   

Blue Triangle currently supports over 400 people every day through their services and outreach work. Between 2023-24: 

• 43% supported people moved into their own tenancies 
• 41% of those admitted to services were under 25 years old
• 35% of those entering the services experienced sleeping rough
• 30% of supported people faced eviction in their previous tenancies
• 15% of those admitted to services were fleeing violence 

The highest level of admission to Blue Triangle services from 2023-24 was South Lanarkshire (35%), followed by Renfrewshire (24%) and Glasgow (12%). This year, the organisation opened the first Recovery Housing service in Kilmarnock, funded by CORRA Foundation, in partnership with East Ayrshire Drug & Alcohol Partnership.  

To mark their 50th anniversary, Blue Triangle have launched a podcast, ‘A Voice in the Dark’ is available via Acast, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.