Tributes have been paid to a man who helped thousands of homeless people in Glasgow.

Stephen Mitchell, who managed the Lodging House Mission, in the east end, known as ‘trotters’ to the many men and women who used its services, died aged 60, earlier this month.

Stephen oversaw the operation which provided the space for the winter night shelter, and also food and warmth and a space for people to meet, get company and comfort and advice.

Glasgow Times:

The Lodging House Mission said: “Today we say farewell and pay our respects to, Lodging House Mission manager, Stephen Mitchell. Whose private funeral service will take place at midday.

“We are choosing to pay our respects with a two minutes silence at noon.

“We invite you to join us, to pause wherever you are, and to remember those closest to Stephen who feel his loss most keenly.

“A time to bring to the fore our own memories of Stephen and to give thanks for his touch on each of our lives. Thank you and may he rest in peace.”

Mr Mitchell was a key member of the network of organisations that worked tirelessly to help those in need across Glasgow

Glasgow Homelessness Network said: “We are so sad to learn that Stephen Mitchell has passed away.

“An incredibly special man and stalwart of the homelessness network in Glasgow for decades.

“Thinking of everyone who loved him and to our friends at Lodging House Mission and the Marie Trust .”

The Marie Trust which works closely with Lodging house Mission and other charities posted its tribute on its facebook page
It said: “Our thoughts are with Stephen’s family today and all the staff and volunteers at Lodging House Mission who cared for Stephen. 
“Such a tragic loss. Stephen touched so many lives with his caring and compassionate nature. 
“It was a real privilege to work alongside him. He will be sorely missed.”

Stephen, and the staff and voluteers, kept the operation running throughout lockdown to provide food and support to as many people as possible.

Instead of the usual Christmas dinner it would cook and provide on the premises, last year, Stephen and the team provided food to be delivered to the homeless people who were accommodated in hotels. 
Mr Mitchell worked to provide a whole range of help and services for people in need with around 100 people a day coming through the doors of the Mission in East Campbell Street every day, before lockdown.
In an interview with the Glasgow Times last year he said the need had not gone away but the Mission had to adapt and work differently to continue to provide help and support.

In a previous interview with the Glasgow Times, he said: “Modern society is squeezing more people and more people are being broken.

“Society is more insular and many people do not have the same family circle or community network that previous generations had. People are living in isolation.”