Scottish charity is seeking Net Zero advisory support for property portfolio and development planning

What do they need help with?

Rock Trust is looking to take meaningful steps towards Net Zero as part of its long-term organisational strategy. While not currently obligated to meet all legislative requirements, the charity is committed to aligning with national and local Net Zero targets and embedding sustainability into its property and operational approach.

The organisation is seeking pro bono support to provide initial consultation and scoping advice on how best to plan and implement Net Zero improvements across its existing property portfolio and future housing developments. This includes understanding practical pathways to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and future-proof its housing offer.

Rock Trust would particularly benefit from partners who have experience in delivering or advising on similar Net Zero transitions. Insights into lessons learned, key challenges, and effective approaches will help the organisation make informed, strategic decisions at an early stage.

Support is sought to:

• Provide an overview of viable Net Zero strategies for a charity housing portfolio
• Advise on carbon reduction planning and implementation pathways
• Share best practice and lessons learned from comparable projects
• Identify practical, cost-effective opportunities for retrofit and sustainable development
• Help shape a roadmap that aligns with funding expectations and future regulatory trends

Progressing towards Net Zero will not only reduce environmental impact, but also strengthen Rock Trust’s position when securing future funding and partnerships, as sustainability becomes an increasing priority for funders. It will also ensure that the homes provided to young people are efficient, resilient, and fit for the future.

This early-stage support will play a key role in setting a clear and achievable direction for the organisation’s sustainability journey.

Timeline

As soon as possible

About the organisation

Rock Trust is Scotland’s leading youth homelessness charity, working to ensure that no young person is without a safe place to call home. The organisation supports young people aged 16–25 to avoid, resolve and move on from homelessness, helping them build the skills, confidence and stability needed for adulthood.

In 2023–24, Rock Trust supported 1,129 young people across eight local authority areas. Their services include housing support, counselling, employability programmes and access to safe accommodation through initiatives such as Youth Housing Hubs and Housing First for Youth.

Youth homelessness remains a critical issue in Scotland, with around 7,500 young people presenting as homeless each year—around 25% of all applications. Many more remain hidden, living in unsafe or unstable conditions. Rock Trust works at both a service delivery and national policy level, influencing systems and standards to create long-term change and ensure no young person is left behind.

http://www.rocktrust.org