The Rotary Club of Anstruther was pleased to welcome Mr Sandy Wallace as speaker to its meeting of 16th September.

Sandy is Treasurer of the East Neuk Emergency Trust and gave a concise, interesting and at times moving account of the work of this charity. ENET is a community-based organisation formed some ten years ago to help people who are experiencing some difficulties or even a temporary crisis in their lives – quite often financial hardship.

The charity is run by local people and covers the area from Crail to Lundin Links, working closely with Social Work Services, Health Visitors, Churches, Skeith Health Centre and other support groups. We heard also how senior pupils at Waid Academy are involved in fund-raising support.

It was explained that there does have to be an assessment process, but in practice some 75% of applicants are helped – about four per month so far this year and with an increasing trend. Sandy mentioned that few elderly people are seen; less than 50 years of age being more typical and below 35 years of age when the FoodBank service is considered.

Sandy elaborated on some of the typical situations where ENET has been able to help and it clearly showed the wide and varied kinds of support needed.

Following questions, an appreciative vote of thanks was proposed by club member George Lyons.