LASCNA is affiliated to the National Neurological Alliance and as such we are able to access national research information to circulate to our members. We have also worked with the Neurological Alliance to produce useful documentation and we meet regularly with other regional alliances in the north to address issues and shortfalls in the service provision available.
One of our first targets was to gain charitable status and we are pleased to announce that we are now a registered charity.
Our aims are to
- Raise awareness of neurological conditions and their impact on individuals and society
- Inform and influence policy makers about the needs of people with neurological conditions
- Secure the highest standards of service and improved care for such people
- Promote research and the dissemination of neurological conditions
Awareness:- We will continue to promote ourselves as a focal point for information and advice for all individuals and organisations in Lancashire and South Cumbria concerned with neurological disorders.
We will continue to expand our membership so that we are able to promote the work of LASCNA to the community at large.
Influence:- Through our membership of the local NHS Neurosciences Commissioning Advisory Group we will continue to play our part in pressing for improved neurological services for all our members
We will increase our contact with professional bodies and service providers through information and advice days.
Standards:- We will develop our perceptions of good and acceptable standards of work in neurology and share these with all statutory and independent service providers
Research:- We will actively participate in local research projects into neurological disorders. Where appropriate we will encourage service providers to undertake research into common areas of concern
Our Development Plan sets out our plan of action over the next two years. Development Plan 2008-2010 updated 3-12-08.doc
LASCNA is run by a committee consisting of representatives of many regional support groups and the footbal legend Sir Tom Finney is our Patron.
When asked if he would be prepared to take on this role he said “I will be delighted to do all I can to support your cause”
We feel it is crucial that LASCNA has a patron who has a true understanding of neurological conditions, and who better than Sir Tom.
He spent four years caring for his wife, Lady Elsie Finney, before she died of Alzheimer’s disease in November 2004. Having such an influential patron will not only help us in raising awareness of neurological conditions, and their impact on individuals and society, but will also make our job much easier as we now set out our plans to seek sponsorship and funding.