The Trust decided to seek a transfer when it was informed that funding in the form of Special Needs Capital Grant, which had been one of the key elements in making the development of housing for people with particular needs possible, was withdrawn.

The lack of funding opportunities and changing government policy made it important for the Trust to consider how it could secure a sustainable long-term future with the aim of maintaining a focus on housing for people with particular needs. This includes securing development opportunities to build or buy housing for people with particular needs and improve how development, housing management and property maintenance services are delivered that benefit current and future tenants.

The Trust decided it had to identify an organisation that had the expertise to help the Trust achieve its aim. After an intense assessment process the Trust identified Castlehill Housing Association as the most suitable organisation.

Castlehill Housing Association, like the Trust is a registered Scottish Charity. It is a well-known registered social landlord in the North East of Scotland providing housing for people with general and particular needs. Castlehill Housing Association has also developed and managed approximately a third of the Trust’s properties for over the last 10 years.

From 1st October 2011 ownership of the properties and operational matters remains with the Trust, with strategy matters under the control of Castlehill Housing Association. This allows the Trust to continue to focus on ensuring that its current and future tenants are able to live in their homes with dignity and as much independence as possible.