Flourish Glasgow began in a classroom.

While teaching English to a group of New Scots, we explored a module on starting a social enterprise. What started as a learning exercise quickly became something much more real. Together, we began talking about the challenges many refugees and people seeking asylum were facing across Glasgow — particularly those living in hotel accommodation without access to kitchens or the means to prepare healthy food.

Many were relying on low-cost, processed meals, often feeling the effects on both their physical and mental wellbeing. As we spoke more, it became clear that this wasn’t just about food — it was about dignity, connection, and opportunity. The longer people remained in these conditions, the more isolating and difficult it became.

From those conversations, an idea started to grow.

What if there was a welcoming, community-led space where people could access affordable, nutritious food — but also so much more? A place to build confidence in English, take part in creative workshops, gain work experience, and feel part of a community again. A place where someone could sit down with you, help you make a phone call, prepare for an appointment, or guide you towards the right support.

Flourish Glasgow was born from those shared experiences, ideas, and hopes — shaped not just for the community, but with it.