The Future of the GSD

By Rob Wilks and Sue Maynard Campbell MBE

Before Rob Wilks' Chairmanship of the GSD during 2003-2004, the GSD seemed overwhelmed by infighting and inactivity. A loss of direction resulted and it existed in limbo and not in accord with the Law Society's new rules on Recognised Groups; because it had not signed the Recognised Groups Agreement. In consequence the GSD had not secured funding for the year 2003-2004.

When Sue Maynard Campbell took over the Chairmanship; the infighting and internal politics at that point seemed to have ceased.

The GSD is refocusing itself on the issues that concern the membership; access to the legal profession for disabled solicitors, trainees and law students and access to the law for disabled people generally. At its final meeting under Rob's Chairmanship it ratified a new constitution and is now in a position to sign the Recognised Groups Agreement.

The main threat to the existence of the GSD at present is the lack of involvement among our membership; a Committee that struggles for new blood and few candidates for Executive positions. This means that the GSD is finding it very difficult to find volunteers to carry out the work required for the Group to be seen as a viable Recognised Group and to represent our constituents effectively.

We need you the members. At last count, there were 933 of you, thanks to the Law Society Groups Recognised by the Law Society leaflet that was sent out to practising solicitors currently listed on the Roll of Solicitors earlier this year.

Please respond to a letter from Sue that will be coming to you shortly asking about your wish to become involved and so on.

Without you we cannot continue, but with you we have a huge job that we can, and will, tackle effectively and with enthusiasm.