That the Parliament congratulates Arlene Smith, who is from Renfrew, on being nominated as a finalist for the Evening Times Scotswoman of the Year title; recognises that Arlene has been recognised for her work with the charity, the Brightest Star; acknowledges that this provides Scotland’s first support ambulance, which allow parents with seriously ill children to accompany them to hospital and has secured a commitment from the Scottish Ambulance Service to provide a further two support ambulances in the near future; understands that Arlene founded it in memory of her six-year-old son, Jack Kennedy, who passed away suddenly on 19 December 2012; commends the service on it meeting its founding aim of supporting families that have experienced child bereavement; notes that it has now supported over 500 families and appreciates its work; acknowledges that these awards have been recognising the achievements of women for over 50 years, have been founded in 1963; congratulates all of the nominees, and notes that the winner will be announced on 15 February 2018.
Supported by:
Bill Kidd, Richard Lochhead, Richard Lyle, Rona Mackay, Ruth Maguire, Ivan McKee, Gil Paterson, David Torrance