Edinburgh homelessness charity Rowan Alba has launched a five-year business plan to create more accommodation and expand preventative services.
Chief executive Karen Barr presented the plan, which covers 2026-2031, to staff and board members at the charity’s AGM in Edinburgh. The event was held alongside its annual staff conference.
The plan sets seven priorities: preventing homelessness and repeat homelessness; helping more people with high quality accommodation; providing support and care services, including psychological intervention; investing in staff; strengthening financial resilience; improving services and properties; and exploring opportunities for growth within and beyond Edinburgh.
Barr said: “Our new business plan for 2026–2031 gives us even greater focus and energy as we work towards growing our range of successful, preventative services which are already taking the strain off the health and social care sectors.
“Key priorities for the next five years include building on our preventative models of support, creating more high quality accommodation in and around Edinburgh, and investing in staff and services to provide positive psychological interventions, support and security for the people we work with.”
The launch follows recent figures indicating a 38% rise in homeless deaths in Scotland. Deaths in Edinburgh rose from 23 to 56.
Barr said feedback from a staff survey would be used to develop how the charity supports its employees.
Conference presentations included a psychology project report from resident NHS clinical psychologist Sarah Phillips and a corporate and community update from Tracey Stewart, corporate and community lead.
Calum Wilson, chair of the board, said: “The launch of Rowan Alba’s new business plan at the AGM is an important step for the organisation, providing a road map to help the charity continue to consolidate its vital services and grow its support where it is needed throughout Edinburgh.”
Rowan Alba is also recruiting trustees to join its board.
Founded in 2003, Rowan Alba provides long-term supported accommodation and community outreach for people affected by homelessness, addiction, and social isolation. It manages seven properties in Edinburgh for nearly 90 residents, and its outreach service visits a further 80 people in the community.
Main image: (Left to right) Kirsty Duncan, head of services; Karen Barr, chief executive; Eileen McMullan, board member; Calum Wilson, chair; and Natasha Johnstone, business Manager, all Rowan Alba
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