LIZ SCOTT

Branch Membership Secretary

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR THE HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS GREENS?

I’m usually the first point of contact from the Branch after members have joined the Party. I send new members a welcome message, put them in touch with their local Area Coordinator and arrange for them to receive the monthly e mail updates from the Branch. I also work with Area Coordinators and Branch officers regarding all activities which involve members, and help keep our membership records up to date.

WHY DID YOU JOIN?

I wanted to help make a difference. I care about people, peace and the future of the planet. If Green activists can’t raise awareness and stand up for these values, who else will do this? We can’t rely on the establishment to effect any real change, as there are too many vested interests, too much emphasis on short term gain (for votes) rather than finding constructive, fair and sustainable long term solutions to both Scotland’s and the world’s problems.

WHAT’S THE SCOTTISH GREEN PARTY POLICY CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART?

Just one? It would have to be Climate change - raising awareness and taking action to reduce our carbon emissions. When I joined the Greens in 2015 there was very little awareness of the need for urgent action, but now that the Scottish Greens have joined forces with the SNP in a cooperation agreement, I am hopeful that we'll have enough influence to achieve great things.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE BRANCH?

I’m hoping our membership continues to increase, and that we can help enable more members to feel part of what we do, in helping with campaigns, building networks, running local groups, and most important of all, standing for elections!

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO PEOPLE THINKING OF JOINING?

Come on in, you’re most welcome! You are joining the only party which cares for people, the planet and social and environmental justice. You can support us in so many ways, and you can make a real difference. You can also meet like-minded people and have fun!

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS?

I love coasts, islands and out of the way places where there is wildlife. Favourites include woods, wetlands, peatlands, streams, salt marshes, reed beds, machair and anywhere I can hear waders calling, or waves crashing on to the shore.