A £2,840 grant from the Merchants House supported Maslow’s Community Hub to deliver ‘Wellbeing Through Community Inclusion’, a 16-week programme designed to improve mental health, reduce isolation and strengthen community connections for people facing hardship in Govan. The funding enabled around 150 people to take part in welcoming, creative activities during the winter months, helping them feel more connected, supported and included.

The project focused on people who are particularly vulnerable to loneliness and poor mental health, including asylum seekers, refugees and local residents experiencing poverty, trauma or social exclusion. Winter can be an especially difficult time, with cold weather, shorter days and fewer opportunities to socialise often leading people to withdraw further. For those with limited income, no family nearby or uncertain immigration status, these challenges can be even greater.

Over 16 weeks, the project gave people a reason to leave the house, a place where they felt welcome, and opportunities to take part in enjoyable shared activities. Sessions took place at Maslow’s Community Hub and were shaped by feedback from those who use the service, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to co-design and community-led support. Activities included music sessions, arts and crafts, games clubs and sewing, offering something for everyone and creating opportunities for new friendships and connections.

A representative said: “The funding from the Merchants House allowed us to bring in experienced facilitators, provide warm refreshments, and cover volunteer travel costs, ensuring that everyone who wanted to take part could do so without financial barriers. We reached around 150 people during the project and are confident it made a meaningful difference to wellbeing, routine, and connection during some of the most difficult months of the year.”

Maslow’s Community Hub is a warm and welcoming space in Govan. More than 1,500 people use the hub each year, where a wide range of free classes, activities and advice sessions take place every week. 

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