Following business and a meal, speaker at the meeting of the 18th September  was Jill Sanderson who is a volunteer with the East Neuk Emergency Trust and who gave an update on the trust’s work.

Started in 2001 by Revd David Laing, who was also a club member, the group provides emergency support for individuals and families who find themselves in (usually sudden) and very difficult and stressful circumstances. These are situations where instant help is needed and where Social Services may take some time to respond.

We heard that situations are of a random nature affecting people of all ages and support can be money or items as diverse as shoes, white goods, beds and bedding, carpets, and bus fares. 

The trust does not deal directly with those in need, but in response to a referral from professionals such as social workers and health staff.

Jill emphasised that the trust is run entirely by volunteers, with the only business expense being for the auditing of accounts. Rather than monetary support she was looking for additional volunteer support. 

Following questions a vote of thanks was proposed by Tom O’Connell