President Andrew Lindsay welcomed everyone to the meeting and introduced the speaker for the evening - Claire Mackie from the charity 'Children First.

Following routine business matters, club member Charles Thrower, who has been a supporter of Children First for many years, introduced Claire. Charles mentioned that in 1980 he had been to the USA and discovered Family Centres. He adopted this approach for Scotland. He also made the point that child abuse was not spoken about in the 1970s, but today and sadly this is an important factor in child care.

Claire thanked us for our hospitality, mentioning that she had discovered that her Dad and club member Ian Hutton knew each other. She went on to talk about the work of the charity and explained that her own area of responsibility covers Fife and Tayside. She spoke of the essential aim of Children First, which is to ensure that all children have a happy and safe childhood.

Last year over 17,000 people were helped by Children First and we heard something of the way that help is provided. Some of the examples quoted made for difficult listening, covering stressful personal and family relationships and, sad to say, sexual abuse too. However, it was also rewarding to hear of the positive difference that can be made; with lives rebuilt. We heard too of previous clients, now with families of their own - and great ambassadors for the work of Children First. 

The charity has two helplines - 'Kindship Care' and 'Parent Line' (Tel 0800 282233). At present Children First has 800 volunteers but, as always, more help is needed.