Allied Vehicles Supports Long-Term Housing For Women In Crisis

Edinburgh - Vulnerable women in Edinburgh are a step closer to breaking the cycle of homelessness, thanks to a £2,200 donation to Rowan Alba from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust.

Rowan Alba works to end homelessness for people in Edinburgh, offering long-term accommodation with 24/7 on-site support. Its unique approach includes trauma-informed coaching, communal meals, and social activities to improve health and life skills.

The charity supports 44 individuals annually across four accommodation services, including Homes for Life for men and Move On Accommodation for women. They also work to prevent homelessness through a befriending programme, supported by 70 volunteers, 40% of whom have lived experience.

The funding from the Trust will contribute to furnishing new, permanent homes in a project aimed at providing flats for homeless women, aged 16 and older, who are facing complex mental health challenges, addiction, and trauma.

These women often face barriers to accessing traditional housing or refuge services due to the complexity of their needs and experiences of violence. Without appropriate housing many remain in unsafe situations or abusive relationships to avoid homelessness, or cycle through temporary accommodation.

The Rowan Alba project will provide eight self-contained flats with 24/7 on-site support, communal areas, and social programmes. These homes will be based on Rowan Alba's Homes for Life model, which has already played a significant role in helping tenants move on from homelessness.

Karen Barr, CEO of Rowan Alba, said:

"The generous support from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust will help more women in Edinburgh who are living in dangerous situations and at risk of violence to have a safe, warm permanent home."

“Individuals can stay in our homes for as long as they choose, and staff are on-site 24/7 to help them recover from trauma. Edinburgh has the highest number of people living in temporary accommodation in Scotland. There is a desperate need for more long-term homes for people facing homelessness and rough sleeping in the city. This generous grant will allow us to buy new furniture to give more vulnerable women a home of their own."

The donation from the Trust will contribute to a lasting positive change, giving women at risk of homelessness and violence in Edinburgh a safe and supportive environment where they can rebuild their lives.

Laura Wood, a Call Handler at Allied’s Edinburgh Parts hub and a member of the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust committee said:

"Rowan Alba's work provides a transformative solution to homelessness, offering safety and security for women who have endured challenges unimaginable to most people. We are proud to support such a forward-thinking organisation that not only provides housing but also cultivates a path to recovery, stability and independence."