Those attending The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum also had the opportunity to view the latest exhibits.

Members paid tribute to outgoing chair Andrea Finkel-Gates for her dedicated service and leadership, alongside fellow committee members Jillian Fernside and Callum Wynd, who also stepped down at the meeting. Tribute was also paid to Priscilla Maramba, who stepped down earlier in the year to support family commitments.

Andrea Finkel-Gates

Andrea reflected on another busy, rewarding and successful year for Forth, beginning by thanking tenants and emphasising that their experiences, feedback and expectations remain central to the Association’s priorities and decision-making.

She highlighted Forth’s continued compliant status with the Scottish Housing Regulator, recognising this as a reflection of strong governance, effective performance monitoring and the continued commitment of staff and Management Committee members.

Andrea also reflected on progress with the Association’s development programme, including the delivery of 21 new affordable homes at Cat Craig Way, as part of the Ridgewood development at Pirnhall in Stirling, together with the completion and handover of a further 38 homes in Raploch shortly after the reporting year.

Preparations for Forth’s next development of a further 59 homes in Cowie were also noted. Andrea emphasised that development was about more than the number of properties delivered: “Every new home we build represents security and opportunities for individuals and families to thrive.”

Andrea also highlighted the launch of Forth’s new Business Strategy and Strategic Delivery Plan for 2025–2030, providing a clear roadmap for the Association’s future priorities. These include enhancing services, investing in existing and new homes, empowering staff and further developing digital services, while keeping tenants and communities at the heart of the strategy.

Thanks were extended to director Sharon Brady-Wardrope and the wider staff team for their professionalism, compassion and commitment throughout the year. Andrea also acknowledged recent staff developments, including Craig McFarlane joining Forth as asset officer and Kiera McArthur progressing from modern apprentice to corporate services assistant.

Concluding her final report as chair, Andrea confirmed that she would be stepping down from both the position of chair and the management committee following the AGM.

“It has been an enormous privilege to serve alongside you. I am proud of what has been achieved together and grateful for your support, your wisdom, your challenge, your humour and your friendship.”

Priscilla Maramba

Andrea said she would leave with many happy memories, confidence in the Association’s future and a commitment to remain a strong supporter of Forth.

On behalf of the Association, director Sharon Brady-Wardrope paid tribute to Andrea and the departing committee members: “Andrea has been an exceptional chair and a passionate advocate for Forth Housing Association. Her leadership, commitment and thoughtful guidance have helped shape the organisation and strengthen our ability to deliver for our tenants and communities.

“Jillian Fernside and Callum Wynd have also decided to step down following recent promotions in their professional roles and the additional responsibilities these bring. While we are sorry to see them leave, we are delighted by their success and like to think that, in some small way, their involvement with Forth has contributed to their personal and professional development.

“We have greatly valued their commitment, contributions and support over the years, and it has been a pleasure to watch them grow, find their voice and make such a positive impact on our organisation.”

Sharon also recognised the contribution of tenant member Priscilla Maramba, who stepped down earlier in the year but remains dedicated to supporting Forth in other ways, particularly through the tenant scrutiny group.

“Being part of the governing body takes a great deal of time, commitment and a willingness to be curious and ask questions,” said Sharon.

“On behalf of the committee, our members, staff and tenants, I would like to express our sincere thanks to Jillian, Callum, Priscilla and Andrea for the time, commitment and expertise they have given so generously. We wish them all the very best for the future.”

Andrea Mina

Following the AGM, Forth welcomed its newly appointed chair, Andrea Mina, who reflected on the importance of the Association’s work within Stirling and the opportunity to build on the strong foundations already in place: “Living in Stirling, I see first-hand the vital role quality, affordable housing plays in our community.

“It is a genuine privilege to step into the role of chair at Forth. Having served on the Committee, I know the commitment of our teams and the pride in the areas we serve. I look forward to keeping our tenants at the heart of our strategy as we guide Forth into its next chapter.”

Following the formal business of the AGM, members were joined by Steven McCabe, housing strategy & policy team leader at Stirling Council, who presented findings from the Housing Need and Demand Assessment.

Steven leads the development of Stirling’s Local Housing Strategy, Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan and Housing Need and Demand Assessment.

Reflecting on Steven’s presentation, Sharon Brady-Wardrope added: “What today’s presentation reminds us is that behind every statistic is a person or family trying to find a home that is desirable, safe, energy-efficient, accessible and affordable.

“The figures show the scale of the challenge ahead, but also the importance of the work that the council and housing associations like Forth do every day.

“Demand for affordable housing continues to grow, while changing demographics, increasing affordability pressures and an ageing population create additional challenges. The need for more of the right homes in the right places has never been greater.

“While these challenges are significant, so too is our collective commitment to tackling them. By working together with tenants, partners and the council, and using robust evidence like this to guide our decisions, we can make a real difference to people’s lives and ensure that Stirling remains a place where everyone has the opportunity to live well and thrive.”