History

Life Housing Scotland has a rich history that dates back to the establishment of various independent branches of the YWCA of Scotland. In 1987, some of these branches merged with an English charity called Christian Alliance (formerly known as Christian Alliance of Women and Girls, founded in 1920), marking a significant turning point for the organisation.

The merged branches included Greenock, Edinburgh (which encompassed Kinnaird Christian Hostel in Coates Crescent and the Craigentinny Christian Centre), and Muslin Street in Glasgow, which operated the hostel known as 'Bethany House', named after the old Bethany Hall. Additionally, a new work started in Glenrothes, Fife, under the name of Gilven House in 1985 which was involved in the merger, though it was not previously a YWCA of Scotland branch.

In 1993, the Christian Alliance decided to establish a separate body, an unregistered Housing Association, originally named 'Christian Alliance (Scotland) Limited', with charitable status, to focus on new housing legislation developments. A Committee of Management was elected, and later, a Director of the Charity was appointed to run and manage the work in Scotland.

In 1994, the parent charity changed its name to KeyChange, and the Christian Alliance became KeyChange Scotland Limited. Then, in 1998, they devolved and became 'Scottish Christian Alliance Limited', reflecting a Scottish 'flavour' and dimension, reminding them of their roots and ethos.

In July 2018, after several years of discussion, SCA and Fife Council decided that Gilven House would be managed by Fife Council. As of 2018, the Scottish Christian Alliance consists of The ARCH Resettlement Centre, a 12-flat complex helping formerly homeless men prepare for independent living with the help of a dedicated and professional team,  and multiple Scatter Flats for those requiring less support across Glasgow.

In a significant move towards the future, in April 2024, the Scottish Christian Alliance was rebranded as Life Housing Scotland. This change in name was a strategic decision to better align with the organization's evolving objectives and aims.

Our Mission Statement

To provide high quality support, assisting people to attain their potential. In doing so, we will be relevant and professional, expressing compassion and understanding of the needs of each individual.

Board

The board of trustees is made up of caring and compassionate people from across the all levels of society. They freely give their time to aid and assist staff in helping those who suffer from the blight of homelessness access our services.

Martin Carr, Chairperson

Martin Carr, Chairperson

Name Martin William Carr BEng(hons). CE. MIMechE
Position Chair of Board of Trustees for SCA
Family Life Married to Linda since 1996
Qualifications Letters after my name
Christian Gave life to Jesus in 1998
Previous Experience Engineering officer in merchant navy for 7 years, worked in Saudi Arabia for 2 years, 3 years at university as a mature student studying mechanical engineering, joined BP Chemicals as an engineer at Grangemouth to eventually become a senior operations manager - left after 20 years. Supported Linda setting up her own business (20 years ago). Now actively involved supporting her, working with the Children's Hearing system and of course SCA.
Hobbies Avid reader, cyclist and now grandparent
Hope etc.. Following God's calling - to grow the work to help people have a meaningful and real life!

Craig Denham, CEO

Craig Denham, CEO

Name Craig Denham
Position CEO
Family Life Married to Lois with two grown up children
Qualifications Registered with SSSC and as well as the HNC holds SVQ level 4 in Care Service management, level 4 in care and a certificate in Training practice
Previous Experience

Prior to coming in as CEO part time, Craig served voluntarily on the board of Trustees.

Hobbies Reading music and football (watching not playing)

Other Trustees

Linda Carr

Linda Carr

Sara Copeland

Sara Copeland

Ian Batt

Ian Batt

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