Cowlairs Community Flat & Garden (CCF&G) opened in March 2025 as a responsive space shaped by the needs and interests of local residents.
Nine months on from its launch, there is now an established and supported number of regular social groups that use the Flat on Keppochhill Road and the nearby Molly Weir Garden.
CCF&G is run by West of Scotland Housing Association’s (WSHA) charitable subsidiary, Willowacre Trust.
It offers a diverse programme of groups and courses that support mental wellbeing whilst bringing the neighbourhood together.
READ MORE:
Linda Allan, Willowacre Trust’s community support services manager, said: “Thanks to the Scottish Government’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund, we’ve been able to deliver a diverse programme of groups and courses based at the Community Flat that support mental wellbeing while bringing our neighbourhood together through creativity, learning, conversation, and social connection.
“In the short time since launch, the Cowlairs community flat has become a vibrant hub, with growing participation across weekly clubs.
“Community members are now confidently shaping the programme by coming to us and suggesting new groups and events, and we’re excited to see how the programme grows and develops in 2026.”
CCF&G has had a busy first year of operation, with groups including a gardening group, a Wednesday social group, and an ESOL conversation café using the space.
The Flat is also used regularly by WSHA housing staff, enabling extra communication with residents.
READ MORE:
To round off 2025, Scottish Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur visited the site.
Mr Arthur recently joined community members for a special festive arts and crafts social session, making recyclable Christmas decorations.
Mental Wellbeing and Social Care Minister Tom Arthur said: “It was a pleasure to meet everyone at the Cowlairs Community Flat + Garden and join in the festive activities.
“It’s particularly important at this time of year to focus on our mental wellbeing, and this visit highlighted just how vital community mental health is to support a healthy, connected society.
“I was inspired by the energy, creativity, and warmth of everyone involved, and I look forward to seeing the continued positive impact of this hub in the community.”
For further information or to view the full list of activities taking place at the Cowlairs Community Flat, please visit HERE.
