The Lord Dean, together with some Directors of the House, recently enjoyed a tour of the Social Bite factory, which is working to deliver the South Lanarkshire Social Bite Village. We have been working with this charity for several years now, most recently helping with their Housing First project, providing both financial support and practical advice. Co-Founder Josh Littlejohn MBE and Trusts and Foundations Manager Elaine Mullan joined the tour, providing an invaluable insight into their work. 

The Social Bite Village will form part of South Lanarkshire Council’s ambition to develop a wider range of options for people experiencing homelessness. Replicating the existing model of Social Bite’s Village in Edinburgh, it will provide a beautiful living environment and intensive onsite support. Working with local charity partners, people in a situation of homelessness will have the opportunities to build an independent life, secure stable employment and sustain future tenancies. The project is planned to open in Rutherglen in spring/summer 2025.

Fifteen contemporary, environmentally conscious homes will be constructed, with a vibrant hub that will foster social interaction and promote individual development through skill-building, recovery services, and personalised assistance. Above all, this will serve as a refuge, supporting individuals on their journey out of homelessness.

Social Bite is a movement to end homelessness. They are a charity and social business providing homes, jobs, food, and support to empower people to transform their own lives. They provide pioneering solutions that create lasting change. 

Want to support them? Their new cafe in Glasgow, near Buchanan Galleries on Sauchiehall Street, is a great central location for meetings, and you can enjoy lunch or a sweet treat knowing you’re doing your bit to help others at the same time! 

Would you be interested in membership of the Merchants House and getting involved in our charitable work? Find out more here.