Thanks and best wishes to Bette

Thanks and best wishes to Bette

Everyone at ELCAP sends their thanks and very best wishes to Bette Francis, who stood down as the Chair of our charity at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 29 September 2022.

Bette joined ELCAP’s Board in 2014.  Before then, she had committed her working life to public service, first in what became the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and later, with the Scottish Government.

In her latter role, Bette was responsible for the implementation of government policy on autism spectrum conditions, learning disability and sensory impairments.

The most inspiring period of Bette’s working life was when she worked on learning disability policy.  She saw people whose lives were turned around when they were given the trust and power to determine how they lived.

Reflecting on the contribution Bette has made to the charity, ELCAP Vice Chair, Philip Coghill, said:

“ELCAP has been enriched by the qualities Bette brings to our organisation.  She gets our vision and the sometimes challenging territory in which we work.  She cares about people and keeps on caring.  And she brings a positivity and sense of humour which make people want to be in her company.

Bette became Chair of our Board in November 2019.  Four months later, COVID-19 struck.  As well as the challenges for the individuals we support, our staff and our community, our Board and our various committees were no longer to meet in person.  As we got used to working online, Bette went out of her way to make sure everyone felt included, involved and welcome in our meetings.

Bette’s passion for ELCAP’s cause and her regard for the individuals we support is evident to everyone who has worked with her.  As she stands down from our Board, our challenge is to carry the torch she passes to us and lead ELCAP with pride and purpose in the months and years to come.”

ELCAP will appoint a new Chair when the Board of Trustees meets on 23 November 2022.