Families, trustees and staff members are asking their local MSPs to back a motion tabled in the Scottish Parliament that calls for expanded specialist services for everyone whose life has been impacted by Huntington’s disease (HD).
“Motion S6M-00923 – Growing Need for Specialist Huntington’s Disease Services” was tabled by Jackie Baillie MSP, and has been supported by 68 MSPs from across all political parties. You can view the full motion, and the MSPs who have signed it, at: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/votes-and-motions/votes-and-motions-search/S6M-00923
“We’re asking all our families and supporters to get involved – we already have the support of 68 MSPs, which is a majority. Whilst gaining majority support for the motion does not compel the Scottish Government or Health Boards to act, it raises awareness amongst MSPs and key stakeholders – and will be a powerful tool for us as we advocate for additional services on behalf of HD families,” said Alistair Haw, Chief Executive Officer of Scottish Huntington’s Association.
“We have written to every MSP calling on them to support the motion. Those who have not yet signed may be more inclined to do so if contacted by their constituents. This is where we’re hoping our families and supporters will come in.”
Scottish Huntington’s Association has created a step-by-step guide to contacting MSPs about the issue, which includes an email template. Download the guide here or hit the button below to contact sha-admin@hdscotland.org for a copy.
The charity has until 6 October to secure the support of as many MSPs as possible.
“If any of the MSPs representing you in the Scottish Parliament has yet to sign, your email could make all the difference,” added Alistair. “We thank our supporters for their help with this, and for all the help they have provided to Scottish Huntington’s Association and the families we support in the past.”