HOMELESSNESS charity ALABARÉ has appointed Lieutenant General Sir Andrew Gregory KBE CB DL as its chairman.

Sir Andrew became a trustee with the charity in July, working with outgoing chairman Malcolm Cassells in a leadership transition.

He brings extensive experience in the military and charitable sectors, including his tenure as CEO of Armed Forces charity SSAFA.

ALABARÉ says his appointment comes at a crucial time with the national homelessness crisis reaching record levels and the government publishing its homelessness strategy.

The charity hopes the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Bill next year will prevent some of the factors that drive people towards homelessness, and welcomes the repeal of the Vagrancy Act, effectively decriminalising rough sleeping.

A presentation from the board of trustees to thank Malcolm for his service.

Sir Andrew said: “I’ve been getting to know the services, colleagues and volunteers across the charity over the last six months, and I’m excited to help them expand their reach and increase the impact of their work even further.

“A real focus for ALABARÉ going into the New Year will be around highlighting the intrinsic links between mental health and homelessness, and how our services, including those for young people, veterans and people with learning disabilities, aim to support clients through those issues and into a choice-led independent future.

“It is also an honour to take over from Malcolm, who has served superbly during his tenure; his leadership has been pivotal to the growth of the charity’s services.”

The charity thanked Malcolm for his dedication to ALABARÉ over the last 17 years, six of those spent as chairman.

Malcolm Cassells

Malcolm said it was a privilege to have been part ALABARÉ’s journey.

“The strength of the board makes it an ideal time to leave, and I know my successor will ensure the story continues and grows,” he added.

“I believe the future is an exciting one for ALABARÉ, helping many thousands of clients in the years ahead, and I’d like to thank the board and colleagues for their unwavering support during my tenure.”