Stalwart of the sector retires this week
A successor has been named to replace one of Scotland’s longest serving charity’s chiefs.
Gavin Yates is to take over at Edinburgh-based Homeless Action after Robert Aldridge (pictured below) retired this week.
Robert, who took the helm at the organisation in 1999 when it was called the Scottish Council for Single Homeless, has led the charity through the entire period of devolution.
His successor Gavin Yates is a former political advisor and worked as head of communications and campaigns at the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations.
The convener of Homeless Action Scotland, Sue Irving paid tribute to Aldridge.
“Robert has been a major contributor to the policy agenda around homelessness for over 20 years,” she said.
“His on-going enthusiasm and drive has led to significant change and his solid relationship building with stakeholders and partners has been effective and transformational.
“We wish him the very best in his future and we are sure he will continue to contribute greatly to public life.”
Robert Aldridge said: “I’ve had a wonderful time at Homeless Action supported by a skilled and passionate staff team and board who want to make a genuine difference for those we serve.
“I am grateful to all of our funders, members and supporters over the last two decades that has made this challenge a pleasure.
“I wish Gavin all the best moving forward and I’m sure he will continue to deliver for our members, supporters and crucially Scotland’s homeless people.”
Gavin Yates said: “This is a great organisation that has an enviable track record of delivery. I will seek to meet as many of our stakeholders in the coming weeks and ensure that the issue of homelessness never slips from the agenda of every layer of government.
“Everyone deserves a decent home and it’s vital that as a society we pull together to ensure that homelessness becomes a relic of the past rather than a stain on our present.”
