AN EDINBURGH homeless charity is desperately seeking new premises after it was served an eviction notice unexpectedly.
The Streetreads Library, run by Simon Community Scotland, which gives between 150-200 local homeless people per week a safe space to be warm, has been forced to close until an alternative location is found.
The City of Edinburgh Methodist Church, where the library is situated, say they are “saddened” to issue the notice but claim they have received several reports of antisocial behaviour and substance use in and around the property.
Fiona Williamson, head of services for the charity told STV News that the closure could not have come at a worse time.
“It’s become a lifeline for so many people. Unlike many services, there aren’t a lot of non-transactional spaces like this. It’s a place where people matter. There’s nowhere like this in Edinburgh that I know of. It’s magic.
“It’s about creating a safe space for people – we have a literary cafe, writing and reading classes, mental health groups and art therapy.
“This is a place for human connection, and losing it would be devastating for those who need it most. The people we support are so stigmatised. This is much more than a library – it’s a community.”
Edinburgh Council estimate there are around 7000 people living in homeless accommodation in the capital, with over 60 sleeping rough in the city every night, according to Simon Community Scotland.
The charity, which costs around £71,00 annually to run, is now looking for a bigger premises to meet demands. Organisers anticipate they will pay between £20,000 and £35,000 more a year.
They are now appealing for “crucial” donations to help them reopen in February or March.
“We’ve outgrown the space; we’ve gone from 15-20 people to now supporting 150-200 a week,” Williamson said.
“It’s impossible not to see the impact of rough sleeping in Edinburgh.
“We know that safety is something people want but often don’t feel when walking into other buildings. We’re building self-worth and self-efficiency here.
“Here, people get accommodation and food, and we’ve built wraparound support. When you think about it, it’s a life-or-death situation for many – no exaggeration.
“We should all be able to use communal spaces. We can’t let people down at the coldest time of the year.”
A spokesperson for City of Edinburgh Methodist Church said in a statement, “We are saddened that we are not able to renew the lease for Streetreads.
“Concerns have been expressed to us regarding an increase in antisocial behaviour, including substance abuse, in and around the church property.
“These issues have been raised with Streetreads for a number of years but sadly the situation has not improved.
“The safety of all our tenants, visitors and staff is a priority but we wish Streetreads success as they move forward.”
