Several years of experience based on outreach work previously carried out by Govanhill Housing Association highlighted a demand for a coordinated approach to housing, education, childcare, health, community care, and economic regeneration issues. GOSIP was developed because of this demand.

A One Door Shop approach has been established as a point of access to a variety of services, advice and information. Click here to see the statistics for April 2002 - March 2003, which profile the types of enquiries and services provided by the One Door Shop.

The case study below outlines the service provided by GOSIP and the type of "enquiries" coming through the One Door Shop. This is just one of many!

Ms A was recently rehoused by Govanhill Housing Association

• Victim of domestic abuse. 3 children under 5 years of age. Language barrier.
• GOSIP completed housing application. Waiting list procedures explained. Other housing options offered.
• Liaised with Health Visitor and Social Work Services regarding domestic situation, specifically with regard to safety of children.
• Tenancy signed in October 2002.
• GOSIP provided information on the Strathclyde Police Domestic Abuse Unit and possible legal action as spouse and his family continue to harass her.
• Given a tour of Govanhill.
• Accompanied to Self Help Initiative for advice. Child Benefit and Income Support Claims completed - further liaison with Benefits Agency as problems arise.
• Housing Benefit Section informed of above.
• Assistance with domestic arrangements - connecting of gas/electricity etc.
• Application made to local nursery for placements
• Social work contacted for support: bi-lingual homemaker assigned; charity pack organised. Blind craft to provide beds/bedding etc.
• Accompanied Ms A to Social Work Dept to complete Community Care Grant
• Day-to-day bilingual support - translating /interpreting services provided