Ms Watson will take over the helm of the organisation in May.

Ms Watson has been with Shelter Scotland since 2002. She started her career in 1989, in a large hostel for older men with a long-standing history of homelessness in the Grassmarket area of Edinburgh.

Her appointment follows the decision of current director Graeme Brown to retire after 12 years with the charity.

Polly Neate, chief executive of Shelter, said: “I’m delighted that Alison will be leading Shelter Scotland at this critical moment. Alison has a wealth of experience and has driven many of our achievements over the last few years including pioneering work to bring those with personal experience of homelessness into the design and operation of our services.

“Shelter Scotland exists to defend people’s right to a home – something which couldn’t be more important right now. Amid the most challenging times many of us have experienced, we couldn’t ask for a better leader.”

Graeme Brown will continue as director until May.

Alison Watson added: “I am delighted to be taking over the helm of this amazing organisation. Now more than ever, we know people who are homeless or whose homes are at risk will need us to stand with them, offering advice and campaigning for their rights to housing to be respected now and forever.

“I promise to do everything in my power to ensure we come out of this calamity fighting to ensure our homes, our safe havens, are more secure and more stable than ever before and that everyone has a place to call home.”