RIP Catherine Morrison

Cath Morrison's pioneering work at The Lilias Graham Trust was characterised by her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of families facing adversity. When she joined the Trust, she recognised a critical gap in support services for parents struggling with their capacity to care for their children. Through her innovative vision and leadership, Cath established a comprehensive framework for independent parenting capacity assessments, ensuring that families received the guidance and support they needed. She led the organisation from the heart.

Her exquisite execution of Braendam House marked a significant milestone for the charity, providing the legacy that continues today. Under Cath's leadership, students from all over the world flocked to Braendam House to be part of this unique community. Cath transformed Braendam House into a nurturing environment where parents could receive the necessary evaluations and support in a compassionate setting. This approach focused on assessment and emphasised personal development and empowerment for parents, aiming to strengthen family bonds and promote reunification whenever possible.

Cath's work was characterised by collaboration with social services, mental health professionals, and educational organisations. She understood that a multidisciplinary approach was essential to addressing families' complex needs. Through her advocacy, The Lilias Graham Trust became a model for similar organisations across Scotland, demonstrating the effectiveness of supportive, family-centred care.

Her pioneering spirit inspired her team and the wider community, encouraging a culture of empathy and understanding towards those facing challenges. Cath's contributions went beyond the operational; she was a tireless advocate for policy changes that would benefit vulnerable families, ensuring their voices were heard at local and national levels. The hope of transformation and genuine care for parents and families defined Cath and inspired her peers in countless ways.

Through Catherine Morrison's leadership, The Lilias Graham Trust contributed to a broader societal understanding of the importance of family preservation and the challenges faced by parents in difficult circumstances. Cath Morrison's legacy is one of hope and transformation, leaving an enduring impact on the lives of many families and the community at large.

Cath was CEO for seventeen years until she retired over a year ago. She previously worked for Sacro, The Richmond Fellowship and The Samaritans. Her legacy is an incredible achievement in the fight against poverty and providing countless families with the opportunity to stay together. 

Cath leaves behind her beloved family, including her husband Iain, her siblings Mary, Lenny, and Peter, and nieces and nephews. Her funeral will take place today in Stirling.