Scottish update
We would like to share an important update with our community.
Gillian Mathewson, a valued member of the PANS PANDAS UK team, will be stepping away from her current role to establish an independent non-profit organisation based in Scotland.
This new organisation will focus on providing targeted support and resources for individuals and professionals affected by PANS and PANDAS within Scotland.
PANS PANDAS UK will continue to deliver its workstreams across all devolved nations, including Scotland.
This development will not affect our ongoing commitment to supporting families and professionals across the UK.
PANS PANDAS UK and PANS PANDAS Scotland will work collaboratively, where possible, to ensure alignment of goals and avoid duplication of efforts.
“PANS PANDAS Scotland is intended to complement the incredible work of PANS PANDAS UK by addressing Scotland-specific challenges and opportunities. I’m deeply grateful to the UK team for their unwavering support over the past two years and for their encouragement in launching this new venture. I look forward to continued collaboration as we move ahead.”
– Gillian Mathewson, Founder, PANS PANDAS Scotland
“Gillian has been with the team for two years and we very much value the contributions she has made. We wish her every success in her new venture. The team at PANS PANDAS UK remain fully committed to supporting families and delivering our work with professionals across all four nations, working alongside Gillian in Scotland where possible.”
– Vicky Burford, CEO, PANS PANDAS UK
More information:
What will PANS PANDAS UK’s role be in Scotland going forward?
PANS PANDAS UK will continue to support Scottish families, professionals, and services in the same way that we do now. You can access our Scotland-specific support and resources here.
Will Scottish-specific resources continue to be developed by PANS PANDAS UK?
Yes. We remain committed to developing and expanding resources tailored to all devolved nations, including Scotland.
How will collaboration between the two charities work?
We look forward to seeing the strategic aims of the new charity, and we anticipate working closely together, providing families and professionals with a united and effective approach.
Will PANS PANDAS UK still engage with Scottish Government and NHS Scotland?
Absolutely. We will continue to advocate for improved services in Scotland by engaging with policymakers, MSPs, health boards, and education authorities. Our goal is to support the implementation of recommendations from the PANS PANDAS Steering Group.
Will research and education efforts remain UK-wide?
Yes. Our research and education initiatives will continue to include Scotland, ensuring representation and inclusion across all four nations.
What does this mean for PANS PANDAS UK’s work in Scotland?
There is no change to our strategic direction or activities in Scotland. We remain fully committed to supporting the Scottish community.
What happens to existing Scottish families already supported by PANS PANDAS UK, and who should Scottish families contact?
Scottish families will continue to receive support from PANS PANDAS UK. PANS PANDAS UK will continue to provide expert-led, evidence-based resources, along with online and in-person support groups across the UK.
Will there be shared resources, campaigns or communications?
No. Each charity is governed independently and will manage its own resources, campaigns, and communications. However, we will collaborate where appropriate to achieve the best outcomes for the Scottish community.
Should Scottish donors continue to support PANS PANDAS UK?
Yes please! We are deeply grateful for the support of our Scottish community. Our objectives in Scotland remain the same and therefore we welcome continued support.
Will Gillian still be involved with the original charity?
No. Gillian has stepped down from her role at PANS PANDAS UK to focus on establishing and leading the new Scottish charity.
