Ex-Scottish Labour leader Dugdale appointed as Stonewall chairwoman

Former Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale has been appointed as the new chairwoman of LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall.

Dugdale, who is currently chairwoman of Shelter in Scotland, said she was "thrilled and honoured" to secure the post, which she will take up in September.

She is currently the associate director of the Centre for Public Policy and previously worked as director of the John Smith Centre.

The former Lothian MSP led the Scottish Labour party from August 2017 to August 2019.

In 2024 Dugdale warned that Scotland's progress in LGBT rights was "fragile" and revealed she still checks her surroundings before holding her wife's hand.

She takes over at a challenging time for the charity after its yearly accounts recently revealed corporate donations had more than halved in the last financial year, falling from £348,636 in 2024 to £143,149 in 2025.

The drop has been linked to the ripple effects of the US government's move to abolish diversity, equity and inclusion policies.

'Deep commitment'

Commenting on her appointment, she said: "Stonewall is fit for the future."

She said the charity was ready to navigate "these turbulent times", influence policy and create more safe and inclusive places for people to feel safe and thrive.

"We won't stop until everyone, everywhere has equal rights," she said.

Stonewall said the ex-politician would bring a wealth of experience in law-making and public policy.

Its chief executive Simon Blake said: "She has a deep commitment to public service and a long history of advocating for LGBTQ+ equality.

"Her skills and experience across academia, politics and welfare will be an asset to Stonewall as we deliver on our purpose to create a safe and equal world for LGBTQ+ people to live, work and thrive."

Outgoing chairwoman Ayla Holdom said it was a joy to be handing over to Dugdale who she said was "the perfect leader".

She added: "Serving in this role has been a profound privilege, made all the more meaningful by the remarkable trustees I've served alongside.

"I step down proud of the strong foundations Stonewall has built, guided by clarity of purpose and strategy to navigate the turbulence of our times."