Steve Douglas: a huge loss to the sector

We’ve been reflecting on the sad news of the loss of Steve Douglas earlier this month. The NHC had a long-standing relationship with Steve, particularly through his role in the Commission for Housing in the North. The Commission articulated ambitions that were unique to the North, calling for more local flexibility and the importance of revitalising places; Steve understood both the challenges and solutions, and supported our work in his role as Commissioner.

He was also involved in our events programme, chairing larger conferences and sessions with the RSH. An absolute professional, Steve made a heavy agenda look like easy work, and his passion for housing was clear throughout. If you’ve attended any events where Steve was part of the programme, you will have no doubt seen that passion and professionalism yourself.

The NHC’s Chief Executive, Tracy Harrison, said:

“I’ve had the great pleasure and privilege of working with Steve on several projects over the years, including during his time at the Housing Corporation, at Altair, and when he served on the Commission for Housing in the North. He was consistently professional, kind and generous, and just oozed gravitas! An intelligent man who was deeply committed to his work, and a thoroughly decent, lovely person too. He’s a huge loss to the sector, and I’m just so sad for his family and loved ones.”

His work at St Mungo’s was just the latest evidence of his tireless commitment to improving housing and improving lives, and certainly the North’s housing sector will miss him. Friends and colleagues have paid tribute to Steve in Inside Housing here.