Alastair is perhaps best known for his time working in the last Labour government, and is now a renowned writer, consultant and mental health campaigner. He will shed light on his own experiences of overcoming adversity as part of the conference’s wider theme of ‘Navigating Our Way in Uncertain Times’.

With political, financial, and social uncertainty, the conference will explore how the social housing sector can come together to meet these challenges and, crucially, how its leaders can continue to forge the way forward to a more socially just Scotland.

One of the major annual events for housing association leaders, the conference will take place on 11 and 12 June 2024 in Glasgow. It will explore key issues for the future of Scotland’s social homes, including staff wellbeing and business planning, against hugely challenging social and economic backdrops.

Alastair Campbell said: “Every single domestic challenge that governments need to address has housing at its core – whether it’s the economy, health, education, or poverty. So, while these might be uncertain times, Scotland’s social housing sector shouldn’t underestimate its power to bring about change.

“I’m looking forward to speaking to housing leaders at SFHA’s Annual Conference, to share my own insights about navigating through difficult times - and coming out the other side stronger.”

SFHA chief executive Sally Thomas said that now more than ever we need to come together to explore how housing associations can maintain their strong social purpose, tackle poverty, and create thriving communities despite wider external challenges.

She said: “I’m delighted that Alastair Campbell will be joining us to deliver the keynote address at SFHA’s Annual Conference. During his time in Downing Street, Alastair was involved in major, transformative, policy issues and has a unique understanding of navigating through uncertain times.

“I really look forward to hearing his perspective as part of what I think will be an important event at a crucial time for housing associations and co-operatives.

“As a sector, we have a uniquely important mission, but with political, financial, and social upheaval it can feel increasingly difficult to deliver. That’s why we’re taking the opportunity at our annual conference to bring together Scotland’s social housing leaders to explore how we continue to forge the way forward for a more socially just and economically strong Scotland.”

The conference will also include an extensive exhibition which will offer delegates the opportunity to discover innovative solutions, products, and services – as well as plenty of opportunities to network.