VIP guest speakers light up Barrhead Housing AGM

The former Chief Medical Officer of Scotland was one of two star turns at Barrhead Housing’s 2025 Annual General Meeting.

Sir Harry Burns, born and raised in Barrhead, was joined by Peter Kelly, Chief Executive of the Poverty Alliance.

The packed AGM was attended by tenants, local residents and stakeholders and partners of the housing association, which owns and manages more than 1000 homes across East Renfrewshire.

Chairman John Hamilton said: “The AGM was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the past year, celebrate achievements and look ahead to strengthening further our relationships with customers, stakeholders and partners.”

Sir Harry, Professor of Global Health at the University of Strathclyde, shared insights and learnings from his remarkable career in medicine and public health. He served as Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer from 2005-14 and continues as a member of the Council of Economic Advisers in Scotland.

Mr Hamilton said: “From his early days as a surgeon at Glasgow Royal Infirmary to today travelling the world lecturing and sharing his knowledge and experience, Sir Harry has dedicated his work to understanding and tackling health inequalities. 

“He spoke passionately about how communities themselves hold the power to address these challenges.”