Connect Hub – Year 2 Impact Report and blog

Celebrating the Impact of the Connect Hub: A Message from Debbie Shields, Chair of the Ambassadors Group 

When I was invited to be involved with the Connect Hub Ambassadors Group, it was an opportunity I was delighted to accept.  I could instantly see the huge impact the Hub has right here in Glasgow working with and supporting women experiencing homelessness.  

Throughout my career, I have seen the transformative impact that community-led initiatives can have when people come together with a shared purpose in this case to support women who are at risk of becoming homeless or experiencing homelessness. The Connect Hub embodies exactly that spirit. It is a place where women can access support, build connections, improve their wellbeing, and its tailored to what they need and want. 

Since becoming involved, what has struck me most is the genuine difference the Hub makes every single day to the women that access their services. Behind every visitor, every conversation, and every activity is a story of support, belonging, and positive change. The dedication of the team, volunteers, partners, and supporters is truly inspiring, and it is clear that the Connect Hub has become a vital resource within our community. 

That is why I am delighted to present the Connect Hub Year 2 Impact Report. 

The report highlights not only the impressive growth of the Hub over the past year but, more importantly, the lives that have been positively impacted through its services and programmes. It demonstrates how the Hub has evolved from opening three days per week to now operating five days per week, responding to increasing demand and ensuring more women can access the support they need. 

However, continued sustainability cannot be taken for granted. 

The Connect Hub is entirely dependent on the generosity of donors, trusts, foundations, grant providers, businesses, and individuals who believe in our mission. It costs approximately £1,000 per day to operate the Hub, and every contribution helps ensure that these essential services remain available to those who need them most. 

As we look ahead, our ambition is clear. We want to sustain our current five-day opening model, trial weekend opening, and ultimately move towards becoming a seven-day-per-week service. This would allow us to reach even more women and provide support when it is needed most. 

Achieving this vision will require continued partnership and investment from organisations and individuals who share our commitment to creating stronger, healthier, and more connected communities. 

I would encourage anyone who is inspired by the work of the Connect Hub to get in touch. Whether you are an individual, a local business, a charitable trust, or a corporate organisation, there are many ways to become involved and help us continue this important work. 

Together, we can ensure that the Connect Hub not only sustains its impact but continues to grow and support even more people in the years ahead. 

If you or your organisation would like to learn more about how you can support the Connect Hub, myself or the team would be delighted to meet with you and discuss the opportunities available. Please email hello@simonscotland.org to arrange.

Thank you to everyone who has supported the Connect Hub so far. Your contribution is helping to change lives of Women here in Glasgow  and strengthen our community every day.

View the Connect Hub Year 2 Impact Report.