Public appointment: Member appointed to the Board of Independent Living Fund Scotland

The Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, Maree Todd MSP announce the appointment of Miss Kirsty Aird as a Member of the Board of Independent Living Scotland.

Member

Kirsty Aird is a fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries and has worked in the financial sector for 12 years across both large corporations and smaller consultancy environments. She has had regular involvement in internal and external audit requirements, regulatory requirements, and in facilitating key financial and risk management decisions. Throughout her career, she has taken a keen interest in diversity and inclusion initiatives, including leading working parties for recruitment equity and mental health issues.

Appointment

The appointment is for four years, from 1 December 2023 to 30 November 2027.

The appointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration

The member appointment is part-time and attracts a remuneration of £190 per day for a time commitment of up to 12 days per year.

Other ministerial appointments

Miss Aird does not hold any other ministerial appointments.

Political activity

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process.  However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public.  

Miss Aird has had no political activity within the last five years.

Background

The Independent Living Fund (ILF) Scotland is a Non Departmental Public Body (NDPB), governed by a Board of Directors, appointed by and accountable to Scottish Ministers. ILF Scotland operates as a discretionary fund providing financial awards to approx. 4,500 disabled people in Scotland and Northern Ireland to help them live independently. This funding enables individuals to pay for support so that they can live with control, choice and dignity in their homes and within their local communities. This includes the 2015 Fund, which provides a regular 4-weekly independent living payment and the Transition Fund for 16-25 year-olds, providing grants, for up to one year, to support young disabled people.