Some of the local tower blocks are being demolished while the housing authority explores new options for accommodating those on support. This concerns many Glaswegians as well as refugees, who are housed in these flats. Below are a couple pictures I took of one the recently demolished buildings:

Most people I’ve talked to are in favour of the demolition – that is, if a better alternative is on offer. By all accounts, the tower blocks are not the nicest place to live. One refugee mother told us about trying to keep her children away from the used needles that are left in the corridor by drug addicts. Anti-social behaviour, racist abuse, and badly maintained facilities are the norm.

Yet a lot of confusion exists about the future of the tower blocks. Some are clearly being vacated and readied for demolition, while adjacent flats are still receiving new arrivals. Rumours spread about how a particular block is going to be demolished, but then some residents receive an allowance to re-decorate their individual apartment.

So this creates a culture of uncertainty and dislocation. A glimmer of hope exists that there could be an opportunity to move to something better, but people don’t know what awaits them or when that will be. Thus, many adopt a “better the devil you know” mentality toward the future. This means that invitation to community (ideally found in the local church), trustworthiness, and consistency become important factors in the shape of our ministry.