A bit of history

On 1st April 2004, Depression Alliance Scotland (DAS) became an independent Scottish charity providing information and support to people affected by depression throughout Scotland.

We started life in 1997 as the Scottish office of the London-based Depression Alliance which originally covered the whole UK. Following devolution and the creation of the Scottish Parliament, it was decided that an independent Scottish charity would best serve the needs of the Scottish people.

The Beginnings of Depression Alliance Scotland

From 1997 to 1999, the organisation in Scotland had one person in paid employment with several volunteers. The amount of work achieved was remarkable – self help groups started to be set up, a conference organised, phone and email lines set up for clients, carers, health professionals and volunteers.

In 1999, funding from the Community Trust enabled DAS to employ a specific group development worker. Self help groups were set up and in 2000, the first Information Officer was employed, thanks this time to funding by Lloyds TSB trust.

Depression Alliance Scotland becomes independent

The Scottish Parliament had been created in 1999 and it was soon realised that an independent Scotland-focused organisation was required.

While depression is the same in terms of symptoms throughout the UK, the fact that Scotland has a separate Mental Health Act, funding streams, a different NHS and referral systems and geographical and population issues indicated a need for a more particular Scottish organisation. A fully devolved Scottish organisation could help to advise upon, and implement, national mental health policy in the area of depression within a devolved Scottish health service.

After various changes in staff and resources, Depression Alliance Scotland was launched as an independent charity in 2004 with a Scottish Board of Directors who work with the Chief Executive and staff to provide services which aim to reach anyone affected by depression in Scotland.

Cynthia Milligan, then chair of DAS, speaking at the launch.

Depression Alliance Scotland today

Today we are a growing organisation with ten members of staff and a wide variety of services. In July 2008 we moved into new offices at 11 Alva Street, Edinburgh which will give us space to build the organisation further and expand. In late 2010 we will be rebranding in order to clarify our position as an independent organisation.

More about DAS