THE chairwoman of the Golden Jubilee Foundation in Clydebank has been awarded a CBE in the New Year's Honours list.

Susan Douglas-Scott, who is also chairwoman of the Independent Living Fund Scotland (ILF), was recognised for her service to public life, promoting diversity, inclusivity and equality and on focusing on improving lives of individuals.

Anne Marie Cavanagh, Golden Jubilee Foundation nurse director, said: “At the Golden Jubilee we are very proud of our inclusive attitude and behaviours, and in line with our vision to lead quality, research and innovation, we want to be an employer that goes above and beyond in changing attitudes for the better.

“Having Susan as our chair embodies this aim and we are delighted that she has been recognised for all the groundbreaking equality work that she has undertaken throughout her life and career.”

Ms Douglas-Scott spent 18 years in local authorities and charities including as CEO of Epilepsy Scotland and of PHACE Scotland. She was also the first CEO of the Health and Social Care Alliance.

She has also served on the boards of voluntary organisations such as Leonard Cheshire Disability.

She has worked as a freelance consultant over the past eight years as well as a humanist celebrant.

She and her partner Gerrie were the first lesbian couple to have a legal marriage ceremony in Scotland on December 31, 2014 after many years of campaigning for equality.

She was recognised with an LGBTQI Icon award in 2016.

Reacting to the CBE, Ms Douglas-Scott said: "I am delighted to receive this award. I’ve been privileged to meet many amazing people throughout my life and career, learning a lot from them.

"My gift has been that I have been able to share their experiences and stories to bring about positive change for others in their lives.

“Being chair of the Independent Living Fund and the Golden Jubilee Foundation means I continue to be in such a position.

"I firmly believe where there is positive and supportive people centred culture, everyone thrives in both the workplace and society.

"I will always strive for equality and inclusion and thanks to everyone who supports me, I am very much part of a team so this award reflects everything we all do together.”