West Lothian firm donates sleeping coats to Glasgow homeless

Coats. <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>
Coats. (Image: Supplied)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A West Lothian social enterprise has donated 25 specially designed "sleeping coats" to help people sleeping rough in Glasgow.

The Ootsider, based in Pumpherston, has developed a weather-resistant garment that transforms from a daytime coat into a sleeping bag, providing warmth and shelter for people experiencing homelessness.

The latest donation has been made possible through an anonymous £4,000 contribution, with the coats now set to be distributed across Glasgow.

John Keogh founded The Ootsider in 2022 with the aim of tackling homelessness through practical support.

The social enterprise reinvests its profits into producing and donating sleeping coats to people experiencing homelessness across the UK.

Since launching, more than 400 coats have been distributed free of charge.

Production now takes place at the organisation’s dedicated manufacturing facility in Pumpherston, West Lothian.

Alongside its original sleeping coat, The Ootsider has expanded its range to include wheelchair-friendly designs and specialist jackets for people living with Parkinson’s disease.

The garments have also found a wider audience beyond homelessness support, proving popular with hillwalkers, campers, wild swimmers and equestrian enthusiasts.

The organisation said every purchase helps fund further donations, allowing more sleeping coats to reach people who need them most.



John Keogh, chief executive of The Ootsider, said: "There is more and more pressure being put on temporary accommodation and night shelters in Glasgow.

"As the homelessness crisis continues to grow in the city, it’s important to know there are incredible people out there.

"Many of these people do good but want absolutely no recognition for it.

"They do it because it’s the right thing to do.

"We were honoured to be approached to supply our sleeping coats to help rough sleepers.

"It’s an incredible and humbling gesture."

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos