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The Making of Â鶹ԼÅÄless

Documentary following playwright Gerda Stevenson during the 10 months she spent learning about homelessness in order to write a two-part drama addressing the issue.

Last year actress and author Gerda Stevenson was commissioned by Radio Scotland to write a two-part drama on homelessness.

Recorded over the last ten months, this programme follows Gerda as she immerses herself in the issues surrounding homelessness, meeting people who are living on the street and those trying to help them.

With ongoing economic hardship touching the lives of many Scots, coupled with the controversial introduction of a so-called bedroom tax, homelessness is at the front of the news agenda.

How will Gerda negotiate the many stories and issues, turning an often complex reality into engaging and absorbing radio? This documentary charts the writer's journey from blank sheet to the final recording of the drama, starring the actress Juliet Stevenson.

28 minutes

Last on

Wed 14 May 2014 13:32
Â鶹ԼÅÄ Radio Scotland

Support Organisations

Shelter believes that everybody needs a home in a place they can thrive. More than one million people a year go to Shelter for housing advice and support via our website, helplines and national network of advice centres. Their work won’t stop until there is a home for everyone. Contact their free Housing advice helpline on 0808 800 4444, or visitÌý

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Quarriers is one of Scotland’s largest social care charities. It provides much-needed care and support for thousands of vulnerable children, young people, adults and families who face extremely challenging circumstances such as poverty, homelessness, learning and physical disabilities and epilepsy. To find out more visit www.quarriers.org.uk or call 01505 616000

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Crisis is a national charity for single homeless people. They are dedicated to ending homelessness by delivering life-changing services and campaigning for change. Their innovative education, employment, housing and well-being services address individual needs and help people to transform their lives. Contact Crisis by phone on 0300 636 1967 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday, or visit

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PAPYRUS and HOPELineUK
If you’re a young person and you’re considering suicide, or you feel depressed or like you’re not coping with life, HOPELineUK, provided by the organisation PAPYRUS, is a confidential helpline service staffed by trained professionals who can give support, practical advice and information.
PAPYRUS can also offer help and advice if you’re concerned about someone you know
Helpline: 0800 068 41 41

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Breathing Space is a free, confidential phone and web based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety. They are there in times of difficulty to provide a safe and supportive space by listening, offering advice and information.
If you think you need Breathing Space call 0800 83 85 87 (from 6pm til 2am Monday to Thursday and 24 hours at the weekend), or go online to ÌýA BSL service is also available via the website.

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Samaritans is available for anyone struggling to cope round the clock, every single day of the year. They provide a safe place to talk where calls are completely confidential. Get in touch by phone or email or find the details for the local branch online
Phone: 08457 90 90 90
Email: jo@samaritans.org

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Broadcasts

  • Sun 8 Dec 2013 10:31
    Â鶹ԼÅÄ Radio Scotland
  • Wed 14 May 2014 13:32
    Â鶹ԼÅÄ Radio Scotland