Lynette Linton is the chair of the National Involvement Network, which is a network for people with learning disabilities. It has just launched a campaign to encourage social care organisations across Scotland to sign up to a new charter setting out how they wish to be involved in how the support they get is planned and run.
Can you sum up in a sentence what the National Involvement Network (NIN) is?
The NIN is a large group of people from across Scotland who have learning disabilities that meets to have discussions about having a bigger say in things that are important to them and getting more involved.
How did you become involved?
I was invited to one of the NIN meetings in 2007 to see what it was all about when I was being supported by St Joseph’s Services in Midlothian. It made me want to get more involved in things.
Why do you work in the third sector?
The NIN is a great way for people who get support to have their voices heard. It is very important to me.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Two things – firstly, speaking in front of 500 people at a conference in Birmingham with the Association for Real Change Scotland, and secondly, compering an event at the Scottish Parliament to celebrate the publication of the Charter for Involvement.
Who is or was your role model?
My dad, step-mum and brother. They have shown me how to get out there and try new things, and helped me get to where I am today.
What is your favourite charity other than your own?
Save the Children. The work it does is really important and I’ve always supported them.
What was the last thing you did that scared you?
Talking to my doctor.
What’s your favourite book?
The Rebus series. Ian Rankin is a good novelist and his stories nearly always include places in Edinburgh I recognise.
What are you working on just now?
I’m helping to develop a new Talking Mat on the Charter for Involvement and training to become a Talking Mats interviewer.
Have you got thoughts on what you will do when you retire?
Oh come on, I’m only 36. I don’t know what I’m going to do next week, let alone when I’m retired.
Are boards the strength of the third sector or a thorn in its side?
A strength. Charities wouldn’t be there without them.
Do you have too many meetings?
I tend to have too many meetings, yes. It isn’t a problem if they are good productive meetings.
What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
Keep busy in your community and try to stay positive.
Brian Denis Cox or Brian Edward Cox?
I’d prefer to meet the science one, so I could introduce him to my dad. He loves his programmes.
Lynette Linton is the chair of the National Involvement Network.
