Right There works with thousands of individuals and families across Scotland, supporting them on their journey to create a safe and supportive place to call home. Mr Cowie joins the organisation as Phil Taylor, who has been a charity Trustee for 8 years, steps down as chair.

Bringing a wealth of experience gained over a 40-year career, Mr Cowie has held several senior positions including chief engineer for BT Openreach for 9 years. With a strong passion for equality, he has been committed to championing diversity and inclusion throughout his career. For the past 10 years, Mr Cowie served as trustee and chair of ENABLE Scotland and vice chair of ENABLE Group, a charity that champions the rights of people with learning disabilities.

In addition, Right There welcomes a new trustee, Dave Anderson, to its board. During his career, Mr Anderson has held several senior positions with a career spanning national and local government, enterprise agencies, and major city development projects.

Over the last 10 years, Dave led in the provision of affordable housing and reducing homelessness in boroughs across England. He also led the Board of the Charity of Ayrshire Voices which gives opportunities to young people.

Commenting on his new appointment, Bob Cowie said: “I am delighted to be joining Right There - a charity with roots going back almost 200 years with significant experience of making a difference to people who are experiencing homelessness, poverty, addiction, or trauma.

“Given all of the current economic challenges, we are seeing the gap widen further in social inequality. This makes it even more difficult for those already going through hard times, to move forward and get an equal chance in life.

“As the organisation continues to respond to the needs of people and local communities, I am looking forward to using my experience in strategic governance to support
Right There in its mission of preventing homelessness and families from becoming separated.”

Janet Haugh, chief executive, Right There, added: “I want to thank Phil for his leadership and guidance over the past 3 years in his role as Chair. Everyone at Right There is delighted to have his support for another year as he continues as a Trustee.

“I am pleased to welcome Bob and Dave to Right There. Both bring a wealth of invaluable experience and knowledge to the organisation as we continue to make a difference to people’s lives, supporting them to realise their potential and create a safe and supportive place to call home.”

Following a strategic review in 2021, in April 2022 the charity revealed a new name Right There (formally Ypeople) to support its new vision and longer-term ambitions to prevent people becoming homeless or separated from the people they love. The appointment of Bob and Dave will strengthen the Board and help us achieve those ambitions.