LIBERTUS SERVICES
Member Consultation and Review
MEMBERS’ FORUM MEETING
TUESDAY JUNE 2ND 2026 at Libertus Gracemount
The meeting, held at Gracemount, was attended by eight members, six women and two men and facilitated by Bill King and Susan McGregor.
- Minutes and matters arising of meeting on 21.10.2025
The group discussed and accepted the minutes of 21.10.2025. Matters arising were discussed in the agenda
- Members’ Issues
Members raised a number of issues including bus trips, serving of tea at lunchtime and the range of activities.
Members would like bus trips, e.g. to Ratho. BK informed the group that unfortunately we would be unlikely to be able to offer any bus trips this summer due to funding pressures. Libertus currently spends around £70,000 per annum on transport for members and this is very likely to rise to around £100,000 with a number of increases in the pipeline. This spending follows funding reductions in the last two years, is unsustainable and we are having to look at ways of reducing the cost. We may need to purchase or lease a bus to prioritise transport of members to the Centre but, in any event, the financial pressures are now so great that we will not be able to afford the daily rate for trips, around £120-£150 for each trip. This is very regrettable but we can concentrate on improving the range of activities within the building. Members made various suggestions and these will be taken up willingly by staff. Members suggested paying for a bus themselves and it was agreed to take further views. However, it seems unlikely that many members will be willing or able to pay £10-£15 each for a bus trip.
The issue of serving tea at lunchtime was discussed but SMcG clarified the issue by pointing out that everyone can have tea but staff can’t serve several cups at each sitting.
- Libertus’ issues
- Survey 2025
BK produced a report of the annual satisfaction survey for 2025 of Libertus members, compiled by Grant McLay, Business Manager. This report showed high satisfaction levels from members of the service. In particular members were very appreciative of the attitudes and competence of staff.
Transport to the centre was much appreciated with a large majority happy with the arrangements.
Meals were highly rated with good choice and quality
Activities were generally satisfactory with some room for more variety (see above)
Personal care was very satisfactory for those that needed it.
Members were mostly likely to recommend the service to others.
In the general discussion that followed, Forum members agreed that the report was an accurate reflection of their own experience. Staff were highly valued and most aspects of the service, especially the opportunities for social contact on a regular basis were really important for people that lived on their own and were carefully nurtured by staff and the organisation. Individual needs were carefully assessed and met. Staff helped members access other services and were also good at noticing changes in members’ general condition and helping them overcome difficulties. Activities were very enjoyable, especially the ‘special events’ like Christmas parties, VE day and the recent 60’s event. Members find the ‘Tuck Shop’ very useful with a wide variety of goods available. Members enjoy the positive atmosphere and the ‘buzz’ of the Centre and can easily meet and talk to other people.
- Date of next meeting
BK suggested that another meeting could be held later in Autumn, date to be confirmed.
