The work of The Space in Govanhill, Glasgow was recently highlighted in a report by the BBC. The research documented the slum-like conditions of private rented accommodation in the neighbourhood, in which many Roma families reside.

Govanhill has often played host to new waves of immigration, and a study mapping the Roma community in Scotland projected that around 80% live in or around this one neighbourhood just outside Glasgow City Centre, drawn largely by the access to affordable accommodation in the neighbourhood.

As the BBC report highlights, this affordable accommodation often comes with a heavy caveat in the form of appalling living conditions, and our team at The Space have heard numerous stories of children being raised in filthy and dangerous conditions. Glasgow City Council have begun to take action against the rogue landlords who are letting out such substandard accommodation, but there remains a great deal of work to be done, and whilst new initiatives begin to develop, many families continue to live in highly inappropriate and health-endangering conditions. The Space continues to serve these families, and the wider community, as best they can.

Read the interviews with local service managers including Margo from The Space here.

Watch a clip about the City Council’s response to the slum housing here.