The invaluable support of the concierge service at Sandyhills high flats proved to be one of the most positive elements of living in the area, according to a survey with local residents.
Sandyhills Concierge
The consultation was developed in 2009 to find out how residents feel about living in the area and raise any issues that may impact on community mental health and well-being. 84 people took part including men and women, students, retired citizens, young professionals, asylum seekers and refugees.
The consultation was carried out by PMA, Sandyhills High Flats Resident’s Association, East Glasgow CHCP Health Improvement Team and East Glasgow Community Planning Partnership.
The majority of participants described Sandyhills as a fairly positive place to live, with the concierge team having a hugely valuable impact on this community.
One resident commented on the concierge service:
“The concierge are great, you can go and speak to them. They’ll help you in any way they can.”
Concierge Manager Charlie McKay says:
“Over the last three years this community has discovered the community spirit again. The Community & Learning Centre provides activities all year round and the work of the Concierge staff has gone a long way in helping to bring people from all nationalities together as one community.”
Neil Quinn from Positive Mental Attitudes, East Glasgow CHCP adds,
“There is a clear link between deprivation and mental health and well-being. We can promote better well-being in local communities through reducing isolation, improving the environment and promoting better access to help and support. As such, regeneration and housing agencies have as important a role as support services in ensuring we have mentally healthy communities.”
Since the consultation a number of initiatives to improve safety, reduce isolation and promote community cohesion are under way including additional outdoor lighting, year-round free and low-cost community events and providing better information so that people have access to the right support.
The full report of the survey and findings is available upon request.
