Future

Major changes are being proposed to mental health services in East Lothian over the next few years. These include the closure of Herdmanflat Hospital and the shift towards more people being cared for "in the community". It is important that ELIG plays a pivotal role in getting the views of service users across to the service providers on issues that may arise on these matters in the "bedding-in" period. We may also be consulted on other changes to the way mental health services are designed and delivered in East Lothian.

We are currently evaluating the benefits and disbenefits of ELIG obtaining charitable status and company limited by guarantee. Charitable Status will open up more funding streams to ELIG to allow us to build capacity, and exempt us from paying VAT on some items. The latter will limit further the liability of individual members of the Management Committee in case of any claims against ELIG in conjunction with our existing insurance.

We have a new constitution in place in the form of Memorandum and Articles of Association, as required by the charity regulator, and are keeping our accounts in their approved format. However, this is still a major undertaking for the Management Committee and would give them more responsibilities. Understandably, the Committee is proceeding with caution on this matter

ELIG is always keen to welcome new members. We are currently looking for help and support to take on practical tasks, e.g. fundraising, and with the general running of the group. If you would be interested in helping out, contact us (follow the "GET INVOLVED" link above for further details about membership).