Lothian Laryngectomy Association SCIO

Constitutional objectives

The organisation’s purposes are: The Main purpose of the LRA (Lothian Laryngectomy Association) is to support Laryngectomees, their families, their carers’ and their medical contact points, by providing information, guidance, friendship and understanding, from members already experienced in laryngectomy care, both personally and professionally. (a) The advancement of health, mental health and socialisation of Laryngectomees and their families / carers. o Supporting our members through the challenges of poor health and reduced communication skills. Ensuring the changing communication skills or communication style of our members does not become a barrier to social interaction and works to prevent feelings of isolation. Lothian Laryngectomy Association assists Laryngectomees to overcome the fear often expressed by potential and recent laryngectomees of what life may be like post-surgery. How to approach and overcome some of the challenges to daily life, as previously simple tasks such as eating and speaking become fraught with difficult, assisting with both maintaining and improving the health of those just getting use to a new way of life. o Care best practice. Ensuring Laryngectomees understand how and where to receive available treatments, aftercare and physical support. (b) the advancement of Education regarding Laryngectomy Care. o Education of Laryngectomees, their families and carers to ensure best practice in the wider health community. Raising awareness of the condition and how neck breathers need added assistance in emergency situations.