2022 – An Insight from the Lord Dean
In preparation for writing this November update I have been reflecting on the events of this past year.
It is fair to say that, globally, 2022 has been a year of instability and extremes. Challenging times lie ahead, yet community spirit and service continue to be the common threads in conversations I have with charities and the people they support.
It is impossible to speak of service without acknowledging the dedication of our late Queen. It was an honour to represent the House at Glasgow Cathedral for the Service of Preparation for the late Queen’s funeral, and to offer condolences to the Princess Royal at the City Chambers.
At a civic reception and dinner for the belated 60th anniversary of the Glasgow branch of the Samaritans I met two volunteers who had given 50 years of service to the charity; a huge commitment to what can be a heart-breaking role.
I am always impressed by the teams involved in the day to day running of charities and the innovative ways in which they problem solve and make their budgets stretch. However, they face an incredibly challenging winter as the cost-of-living soars, and demand for food banks and warm clothing rises, along with increasing fuel poverty. I personally found the time I spent at Govan Pantry very humbling, where I saw first-hand the real need that exists in our communities.
The House continues to adapt to meet our charitable aims and I would like to thank members for their continued financial support, particularly those who attended our first Legacy and Philanthropy event and gave so generously.
Corporate social responsibility continues to be high on the agenda for local businesses who hire our suite of rooms for small meetings and corporate events. Throughout the year the Grand Hall has hosted hundreds of visitors for conferences, lectures, and award ceremonies and continues to raise revenue for our charity. It has been wonderful to see the House bustling with life and the Doors Open Day in September was a chance to introduce younger generations to the history of the House, and its valuable role in society today.
In October we thanked our former Chief Executive Officer and Collector Paul Martin for all that he achieved for the House in the past six years. We wish him the best of luck in the next chapter of his career. Recruitment has started in the search for a new CEO and we will provide regular updates to members. In the meantime, the Lord Dean’s Committee will provide support and advice to Acting Collector, Nancy Braid.
In the New Year we shall share the events calendar and details of updates to our grants programme. It seems a little early for festive greetings, but I do hope to see you on the 6th of December for the annual Christmas Concert where the Phoenix Choir will be performing.
