Social Inclusion and Equal Access
A Scottish charity working for social inclusion for people with disabilities.
The Challenge
SDEF recognised the need for change when it was appointed as the umbrella body in Scotland for Access Panels and it was around this time that our legal expert, Cecile Gillard, was in touch with the SDEF team for the first time. Following the appointment the charity was receiving major funding from the Scottish Executive and becoming a leading authority for promoting access for people with disabilities to the built and natural environments.
The charity is a user-led membership body representing a wide range of unincorporated bodies in Scotland. As it grew and developed, the need for change became apparent. Practical legal advice and assistance were recognised as being fundamental to the charity’s evolution, not just initially but on an ongoing basis.
The Solution
The charity chose Burton Sweet because the breadth of our legal knowledge and skills, as well as financial acumen, perfectly fitted their needs. To be effective in meeting the new challenge it faced, a more appropriate legal structure was needed, plus an updated governance structure and a modernised constitution.
Great Results
SDEF was greatly assisted by Cecile in developing a good governance structure and appropriate constitution. Alongside the right legal structure, these factors facilitate its vital work in influencing policy and enhancing social inclusion of those with disabilities in Scotland. Cecile continues to support the charity in adhering to correct legal procedures and meeting the requirements of the charity and company regulators. We continue to guide the charity’s board and staff, advising on and assisting with governance and constitutional matters as well as providing other professional legal support when needed.