Happy new year from Keith
Keith Fowler has been Chair of our Board since October 2011. At the start of a new year, he sets out his vision for the organisation.
Keith Fowler
I became a Board member of Scottish Families Affected by Drugs in January 2009, after the death of my son Perry from poly drug use (drugs & alcohol). My main aim in joining the Board was to get better support for families after a drug related death and to promote a better understanding of what families living with a drug user can go through.
Understanding
I’m often asked why I give up my time for this organisation. It is an easy one to answer – it is because of what myself and my family have been through, and because I speak to many other people going through similar situations. We need an organisation that recognises the needs of families.
I passionately believe in our aims, which include strengthening the voice of families affected by drugs misuse; increasing families’ capacity to cope through information and support and improving the quality, scope and reach of local support for family members.
Vision
As Chair of the Board, my vision for the organisation is to employ more Community Development workers so we can get into more communities to support and help families. We are also working to expand our helpline services to include more web-based information and support.
On the advocacy side we need to gain influence with policy makers to make sure that they understand the issues families face, the needs they have and the positive impact they can have on the recovery of their relative.
Enthusiasm
So I, along with the rest of the Board and staff, have big plans for the coming year. We know, however, that 2012 is going to be a difficult year due to the financial climate for the third sector. We are already thinking creatively about securing funding for Scottish Families Affected by Drugs to grow.
It is going to be a challenge but we have a strong, diverse Board and an enthusiastic team who are working hard to get over the hurdles that this year is going to bring.
And can I take this chance to wish you a good 2012 and to say thank you to everyone who supports our work. It’s by working together we can have the greatest impact.
Get in touch
Do you have a question for Keith? Email us at info@sfad.org.uk
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