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Aberdeen Cyrenians

Empowering and supporting people in Aberdeen and the north-east of Scotland since 1968

What started as a soup kitchen run by student volunteers has grown into a vital service tackling homelessness, poverty, addiction and social exclusion.

On this page

We know that tough times can happen to anyone. That’s why we take a person-first approach, meeting people where they are and providing practical, tailored support to help them move forward.

Our work isn’t just about providing services—it’s about driving change. We challenge the stigma around homelessness and vulnerability, pushing for better policies and more effective solutions. Innovation has always been at the core of what we do, and we continue to adapt to meet the needs of our community.

Our history

1960s

Founded by University of Aberdeen students

A group of students saw the need for direct action and created Aberdeen Cyrenians to support the homeless and vulnerable in the city

1970s

First Homelessness Day Centre

We opened Aberdeen’s first-ever day centre providing safe spaces and essential services for those in need

1980s

First Women’s Hostel, First Wet Hostel in the UK

Breaking new ground, we established the UK’s first wet hostel, offering harm reduction and specialist support for individuals with alcohol dependencies

1990s

First Rent Guarantee Scheme

Addressing housing barriers, we introduced Scotland’s first rent guarantee scheme, helping people secure stable accommodation and avoid homelessness

2010s

First Care Leavers Education Project

Recognizing the challenges faced by young people leaving care, we pioneered a specialist education and support initiative to empower care leavers.

2020s

First Food Bank with Delivery Services (During the Pandemic)

In response to COVID-19, we adapted rapidly, launching Aberdeen’s first food bank delivery service, ensuring access to food and essentials for those most in need.

Our ethos

  • Our services are person-centred, flexible, inclusive, compassionate and friendly
  • We help people live fulfilling lives working towards goals that matter to them
  • Our team work alongside people to reduce and overcome barriers that they face
  • We empower people by building skills and resilience
  • We know life is complicated and offer support that encompasses multiple needs
  • All of our staff are specialists in providing care and support
See our impact

Learn more about us
Our history

Safe and welcoming support for anyone struggling, or in need of help
Meet the team

People are at the heart of who we are and what we do
FAQs

Information on donations, opening hours and current appeals.

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