Fresh approach homeless unit
Politicians wade in on Lindsay House
caused by residents of Lindsay House.
“I was concerned, though, at the reports from some traders about incidents happening during the day as well as at night, and I can see why people are worried.
“Lindsay House has been operating in the location for decades, as a facility of single homeless people. It is only within the last couple of years the council has contracted YPeople to operate part of the facility for their client group, and there was a general view when meeting traders that the problems had risen since that contract had been issued.
“Lindsay House should not be shut down, it has operated as part of EK Village for many, many years. There is clearly work to be done in reaching a solution best for everyone. That’s what I am trying to facilitate – that is all I can do as it is SLC responsibility.
“It may be, for example, that more intensive management is required or more care has to be taken in placements, or indeed that the operation of the shared facility for mainstream homelessness and special-needs homelessness has to be reconsidered.”
LISA CAMERON MP
“Reporting in the East Kilbride News has highlighted the significant concerns my constituents voice, particularly business owners, elderly residents who report being intimidated and families whose young children live nearby and who can’t let them out to play as they directly witness antisocial behaviour and drug abuse.
“It seems that local people have now lost all confidence in the YPeople Project. I believe it must be relocated or at least management should immediately alter their assessment placing only those residents who demonstrate some degree of stability and rehabilitation, and can therefore engage positively with the local community.”
GRAHAM SIMPSON MSP
“The East Kilbride News is to be congratulated for shining a light on this issue. They have done their job as the local newspaper.
“It is clear to me that Lindsay House provides an essential service for people who are desperately in need.
“It is also clear that much of the police’s time in the town is taken up by events with at least a link to the project.
“The report last week about a service user been placed there while an assault victim was also there was extremely worrying.
“The question must be, what happens now, if anything.
“The council must take the lead on this as they commission YPeople.
“I believe that a summit should take place involving the council, police, YPeople and some local politicians and that nothing should be off the table.
“It should be held in private so that people can speak freely and the outcome then made public. The important thing is that any decisions need to be evidencebased. I’ll be writing to the council to suggest this and I am happy to take part if invited.”