Tributes paid to former GSA Chair Robin Bailey

Tributes have been paid to our former Chair Robin Bailey after he sadly passed away.

Robin passed away the early hours of this morning (Monday 13 May 2024) aged 74 following a battle with illness. He stepped down from his position as the Chair of GSA at the end of March after completing his three-year term.

Our Chief Executive Ruth Cooke said: “We are deeply saddened to hear that Robin has passed away.

“Robin led us through a very challenging and crucial period with drive and commitment. He played a pivotal role in the merger in 2021 and then took on the role of GSA Chair – leading a huge collective effort to address the issues identified in our downgrade and steering us back to G1 in late 2023. Robin’s determination to see this through, despite already being ill towards the end of his time as Chair, was inspirational and says a lot about the dedicated person and professional he was. It really mattered to him that he completed this journey.

“I enjoyed working with Robin hugely. Though he took his role and responsibilities very seriously he was great fun to work with and passionate about social housing and its crucial role in society. When Robin departed in March, he sent a heartfelt message to all colleagues in which he talked about the privileged position we are in as a social housing provider because it means we are able to help others. His commitment to our customers and belief in our role in supporting them was at the heart of his work. Through all the challenges we faced during his time as Chair he never lost that focus and was determined to stay connected to customers and the colleagues helping them. He liked nothing more in his role than spending a day with teams providing frontline services.

“On behalf of everyone I want to pass on our deepest condolences to Robin’s wife Sally and his family and friends. Our sector has lost a true champion.”