A new community hub has been installed in Granton as part of a project supporting people affected by homelessness.

The modular building is the first of seven planned for the Social Bite Village in Edinburgh, which is being relocated from its original site to the Grantonv Waterfront.

The village provides a supportive environment, facilitating their journey out of homelessness through on-site support services. 

The hub will act as a shared space for residents, providing an area to gather, cook and socialise.

Josh Littlejohn, founder of Social Bite, said: “It is brilliant to see this milestone reached as the new Edinburgh village begins to take shape.

“We look forward to welcoming residents to their new home.”

Six newly designed one-bedroom “Nest Houses” are expected to be delivered in the coming weeks, with the full development due to open later this spring.

Edinburgh hub a ‘new chapter’

The Social Bite Village, first launched in 2018, provides supported accommodation in a community-focused setting and has helped nearly 100 people move towards independent living.

The relocation to Granton has allowed for improvements to the design and facilities, developed in collaboration with residents and charity partner Cyrenians.

Amy Hutton, director of services at Cyrenians, said: “A key part of the Social Bite Village’s success is the strong sense of community between residents, volunteers and staff.

Ms Hutton added: “The hub plays an important role in that, offering a space where people can come together, cook, relax and build connections.

“We are excited to begin this new chapter and continue supporting residents in the new location.”

Cyrenians will continue to provide round-the-clock support at the site.

The hub was manufactured by Ecosystems Technologies and transported from the Highlands to Granton. The remaining buildings are expected to arrive in April.

The project has received support from M&G plc through its Empty Spaces coalition with Habitat for Humanityv, as well as backing from Anderson Strathearn, itison and individual donors.

Social Bite operates across the UK, aiming to tackle homelessness through housing, employment and support programmes.

Source: https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/25950899.new-social-hub-installed-edinburghs-granton-waterfront/  

Image: Social Bite