One of Scotland’s most successful social housing services has received £10,000 in funding from ‘Awards for all Scotland’ to help upgrade its garden for residents.

Ypeople’s (formerly known as YMCA Glasgow) Branston Court service provides accommodation and support to young people aged between 16 and 25 whose lives have been affected by homelessness as well as asylum seekers seeking protection.

The funding will be used to revamp Branston Court’s large garden giving residents a place to socialise and a BBQ area where residents and support staff can prepare and cook food.

The money will also help to create an area of ground for planting and growing fruit and vegetables which can be used in cookery classes in addition to providing flower beds and a sensory garden for one to one meetings.


Branston Court is currently home to 21 young people and around 30 asylum seekers. The service, which offers a wide range of social and educational opportunities for all residents, recently celebrated 21 years of providing support for Glasgow’s vulnerable people with a special event at Glasgow City Chambers.

Joe Connolly, Chief Executive of Ypeople commented: “Branston Court supports the most vulnerable people in our community and we are delighted to receive this funding from Awards for all Scotland which will make a great contribution towards improving the self esteem and confidence of our residents.

“Branston Court provides an ideal starting point for young people who need help to move forward with their lives as well as for those seeking asylum as a refuge while they try to rebuild their lives in this country.

“Many of our residents may never have had a garden before. The funding will allow them to have a natural workout outdoors and provide an excellent healthy living environment in which to get fit, de-stress and learn new skills.”

(GK)