Housing Associations, of which there are about 290 in Scotland, are non-profit making organisations whose primary function is to provide and manage housing for people in housing need. They are completely separate bodies from local government, but obtain substantial public funding for their work.

In general, associations usually have a membership, which is open to all their tenants and possibly the public also. The members elect a committee, which runs the association. Members can also attend AGMs and other important meetings.

Associations have been very successful in developing communities and introducing non-public funds to provide new housing. For this reason, associations are becoming a preferred partner for local authorities, enterprise companies and others to generate sustainable communities.