Scotland council

The MS Society Scotland Council represents people affected by MS in Scotland, and works on their behalf.

The council is responsible for MS Society Scotland’s strategy, and is accountable to the Society’s UK board of trustees.

Council members work alongside the staff team in Scotland, as well as local MS Society branches, to beat MS.

Meet the council members

The MS Society Scotland Council has eight members. They are:

• Bryan Alexander
• Ann Barnes
• Judy Eglington
• Michelle Logie
• Linda Mason
• Hew Mathewson (chair)
• Angela McCormack
• Angela Monteith

Bryan Alexander

"While the MS Society has grown from strength to strength over the past few years, the demands now placed on its income are considerable. It is essential that the Society continues to support a wide range of world class research projects and also ensures that its activities are driven by the needs of those affected by MS. In view of the significant developments which have recently taken place, it is important at this time of severe financial restrictions that new and innovative fund raising activities are developed and promoted, to increase income and thus support the Societies many activities. 

"For over 25 years I practiced as a solicitor and have broad experience in various legal disciplines, including charity law and disability issues. I was diagnosed with MS in 1997. In the past I have been actively involved with various voluntary organisations having been a member of a Community Council and CAB. I am currently a member of a local Children’s Panel.

"I believe that I can provide a valuable and sound contribution to the valuable work of the Society and my legal training would hopefully be of assistance to the Council, when addressing any charity law or disability issues."

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Ann Barnes

"I believe the key challenges facing the Scottish Council are to establish a viable, open and transparent representing people affected by MS in Scotland, that the strategic vision, aims and objectives of the MS Society meets the needs of Scottish people as well as those across the UK.

"I have been an active volunteer and Support Coordinator with the Ayrshire and Arran branch for the past 15 years and my nursing and social care background has been beneficial when signposting people to make sure that they receive the care and support that suits their needs, ability and aspirations. It is my opinion that volunteers are the lynchpin of the Society and I believe that with the proper support and training they will continue to help and find a way to beat MS.

"I am keen for the Council to work with the statutory services to ensure that the standards of care delivered to people affected my MS do not decline in this economic crises and will campaign and influencing decision makers for this by lobbying."

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Judy Eglington

"I believe MS Society Scotland has two main challenges over the next few years. First to ensure QIS clinical standards for MS are fully met by all Health Boards throughout Scotland. Secondly, to restore Scottish member’s trust in the MS Society so that everyone can work together to unite and strengthen the Society.

"I have been energetically involved with the MS Society over several years, initially as Manager of Leuchie House MS Respite Centre, and since retirement as Vice Chair and latterly committee member of MS Borders Branch. I served on the Scottish Council from 2003 – 2007 and for several years have been involved in the PRTC Borders Carers Centre.

"My involvement with both these organisations has given me an understanding into many of the issues surrounding people affected by MS locally and nationally and I have been involved in negotiating with Health Boards and Local Authorities for improved services including successful negotiations for a Borders MS Nurse. I remain strongly committed to working towards equitable services for all people affected by MS.

"My aim if elected is to promote the best interests of people affected by MS and believe my previous experiences have equipped me with the necessary skills."

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Michelle Logie

"The Society has many challenges. However, I believe the most pronounced is in the continuation of funding vital scientific research, balanced with the demands on the Society’s funds. Significant advances have been made, in particular by the Edinburgh Centre for Translational Research but, equally important are the volunteers, fundraisers and the support network for all those affected by MS.

"I was diagnosed with MS in 2002. I treat MS as a friend, some days we get on some days we fall out (or fall over). My background is in the construction industry, specialising in Sales and Marketing, particularly all aspects of unlocking routes to market. This expertise can be used extensively to increase awareness of MS and expose new channels for fundraising.

"I will bring to the Council extensive Senior Management experience gained at board level. I am enthusiastic, motivated, and determined as well as being a fundraiser and active volunteer for the Society. I know what it is like living with MS. I know how life changing a diagnosis is and I know the effects MS has on family and friends. It would be an absolute privilege for me to be elected onto the Scottish Council". 

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Linda Mason

"My name is Linda Mason; I have MS and a wheelchair user. I am a self-management course leader for MSS Scotland, a committee member for the Stirling branch and do other many other pieces of voluntary work for the society which I enjoy.

"I am a committee member for a charitable housing association, which means I am a trustee, landlord and employer. I have recently qualified in governance, therefore am aware of the roles and responsibilities required to be an effective and successful Council member. Eighteen months ago I was elected on to the council for two meetings before the Council was suspended. I hope on this occasion to make a difference and improve the lives for people living with MS.

"The Council must ensure everyone is working cohesively and in the same direction, build trust and are accountable. The Society must deliver for all members. I believe research and service provision is equally important and should be equitably supported.

"The new Council must ensure this work is developed and delivered, and be the voice of the Scottish membership. We must ensure people with MS in Scotland receive the best choice of care and service available." 

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Hew Mathewson

"MS has affected me in one way or another all of my life. I was nine years old when I became aware that my friend John’s big sister had MS. My father who was her family doctor cared for her until her death which affected us both greatly. He considered MS the cruellest of all the things which could affect his patients, particularly the young. As a dentist I look after a group of patients aged 30-71 who have MS, many are members of the Society, as I have been for twenty years.

"There are three key areas for the MS Society. Above all we must continue to improve the standard of care for those directly affected by MS and the level of support for carers. Research currently promises so much both in understanding the disease and possible treatments but funding this will be a particular challenge so we need to be ever more effective while costs are kept to a minimum.

"With a medical law degree, experience as chair of a medical charitable trust, and recognised expertise in working with officials, ministers and members in both parliaments I believe I can contribute significantly if allowed to serve the Society."

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Angela McCormack

"I believe the MS Society needs to prioritise the need for better communication and a fresh, open-minded approach. More research is required, seeking information to facilitate better understanding of the challenges faced in specific areas and nations. I also believe the Society should seek to help empower people to make informed life choices, and that priority should be given to support young people.

"I was diagnosed with MS in 2001. My background in finance, business and the Third Sector give me an extensive range of skills and abilities. I work for a consumer champion and I am a charity trustee. I have strong experience in charity law and finance, audit, best practice and community engagement. A lifelong volunteer and charity fundraiser, I bring knowledge and life experience from the many roles I have undertaken, particularly working with young people. My attitude is that life is precious, and should be lived to the full.

"As a current trustee and board member, I appreciate and understand the need for good governance and guidance. I approach everything with a balanced, impartial view. Thus, the opportunity to be a member of the Scottish Council would be a role I would be delighted to undertake."

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Angela Monteith

"I believe the new Council should:

1. Encourage expansion of Membership.
2. Promote improved open relevant and regular communications between Trustees, UKHQ, National Offices, National Councils, branches, volunteers and members.
3. Work towards achieving National Neurological Standards in all regions.
4. Find ways to make the society more relevant to younger members.
5. Sustain funding for research mindful of the high incidence here in Scotland.
6. Applaud and acknowledge the dedicated work of our volunteers.

"I have lived with effects of MS for over forty years, firstly as carer for my Father who had MS, then in 1990 I was diagnosed with MS myself. For around six years I have served on the Orkney branch committee, and am currently Vice Chair. In 2006 I was elected to the MS Scottish Council, and in 2009 served briefly as National Chair As a person who is retired, and whose family has moved on, I have the time to dedicate to Council duties whenever and as often as required, without restraints. I am still as passionate about the work of the Society, and if elected would feel privileged to represent you once again at Council level."

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