Hepburn announces ILF Scotland chair and board member appointments

Minister for Sport, Health Improvement and Mental Health, Jamie Hepburn has announced the appointment of Susan Douglas-Scott as the new chair of ILF Scotland as well as the appointment of three board members.

Mr Hepburn (pictured) said:“I’m delighted to announce the appointment of Susan Douglas-Scott as the chair of ILF Scotland and of Bridget Sly, Alan Dickson and Fiona O’Donnell as board members.

“The purpose of the new ILF Scotland is to safe-guard the rights of our most severely disabled people to live independent lives and I am confident that these four people have the experience, commitment and drive to make that happen.”

Independent Living Fund Scotland (ILF Scotland) commenced its full operations on 1 July 2015 and the Scottish Government has committed £5 million to open the scheme up to new users.

Ms Douglas-Scott said:“It is a great honour for me and allows me to continue my commitment to disabled people and equality. I am proud that the Scottish Government has listened to the voice of disabled people by retaining the fund here in Scotland and indeed extending it to more people.

“In my time as Chair of the Board I will work with all those involved to a create a strong foundation for the future sustainability of the Independent Living Fund in Scotland and Northern Ireland.”

All four appointments will initially run from 12 October 2015, for two years.