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Giroscope
Introduction
- Dilapidated properties are restored, improving the local area
- Refurbished properties are rented out on fair terms to those in need
- Support is provided to help tenants get back on their feet
Summary
Giroscope began in the mid-1980s, when a group of students and unemployed locals decided to do something positive about their own housing situation after becoming fed up with being exploited by private landlords. They clubbed their giros together to put down a deposit on their first house—and in 1986 they registered Giroscope
Since 1985, this social enterprise and workers’ co-operative has renovated more than 30 properties, providing affordable homes for many hundreds of people including single parents, the long-term unemployed, ex-offenders and people who are in full-time employment. The organisation also offers an informal basic support service to tenants who are entitled to benefits, including help with housing benefit forms.
Unlike many landlords, Giroscope doesn’t ask for deposits or rent in advance. Instead, a fair weekly rent is charged, based on individual circumstances and the area. The houses and flats are let with cookers, fridge-freezers and beds. Some of the properties are fully furnished.
Giroscope is supported by Social Enterprise Yorkshire and the Humber which in turn receives funding from Yorkshire Forward. Giroscope has assisted and inspired other people to set up similar projects, including a co-operative shop and cooperative printers, and established a crèche in one of its properties to provide much-needed child care for themselves and others. The organisation won the 1989 -1990 Housing Associations’ Charitable Trust Award for Housing (The Times/RIBA Community Enterprise Scheme).
What is Yorkshire Forward’s connection with this initiative?
Giroscope is supported by Social Enterprise Yorkshire and the Humber, which in turn receives funding from Yorkshire Forward.
You can find out more at www.giroscope.co.uk
