Erskine, Scotland’s leading Veterans’ charity, has appointed Andrew Cowan as the organisation’s new Chair.

Andrew is a former Captain in the Royal Naval Reserve, where he commanded HMS Dalriada in Glasgow and held senior roles within the Maritime Reserves and the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association.

He is a housing lawyer and Managing Partner at TC Young Solicitors, with more than 30 years’ experience in housing law and civil litigation. He also serves as a part time convenor of the Mental Health Tribunal for Scotland and the First Tier Housing Tribunal for Scotland, Housing and Property Chamber.

Andrew joined Erskine in 2003, serving as Company Secretary for 21 years before being appointed a Trustee in December 2024. He succeeds outgoing Chair Stuart Aitkenhead, who has held the position since 2021.

Andrew said: “I have worked with Erskine for more than 20 years and have seen first-hand the support it provides to Veterans and their families across Scotland. Over that time, the organisation has continued to adapt, developing new services and approaches to reflect changing needs while maintaining a clear focus on those it serves. It has also strengthened the way it works with partners across health, housing and the wider public sector.

“I am delighted to take on the role of Chair and to work with the Board, leadership team and staff to support that work. There is a strong foundation in place, and the focus will be on ensuring services remain responsive, sustainable and aligned to the needs of Veterans and their families in the years ahead. I would also like to thank Stuart Aitkenhead for his leadership and contribution to the organisation over many years.”

Outgoing Chair Stuart Aitkenhead joined the Board in 2012, initially serving on the Property and Estates Committee. He later chaired the Finance and Performance Committee before being appointed Vice Chair and then Chair in September 2021.

During his time on the Board, Erskine has developed and implemented a new long-term strategy to reflect changing needs within Scotland’s Veteran community. This has included a shift towards more community-based support, earlier intervention and a wider geographic reach, while retaining its core residential care provision.

Under this approach, the organisation combines its two care homes with a broader range of services, including transitional supported accommodation, assisted living apartments, cottages, Veterans’ activity centres and a Home Support service. The model is designed to reach more Veterans and their families across Scotland, including those living beyond the immediate vicinity of Erskine’s residential facilities.

Stuart was also part of the leadership that guided the organisation through the COVID-19 pandemic, when staff worked with local authorities and health partners to maintain services while prioritising the safety of residents, families and staff.

He said: “It has been an honour to serve on the Board and as Chair. Over that time, the organisation has taken important steps to adapt its services in response to changing needs of Veterans, with a greater focus on community-based support and reaching more Veterans and their families across Scotland.

“I am particularly grateful to our staff and volunteers for their commitment, not least during the challenges of the pandemic. I wish Andrew every success as he takes on the role".