"The funding is not the purpose, it is merely a means to an end.

The means must not become the end."

Your point is a valid one, Richard, but just because someone is very good at achieving funding, why the assumption that they are led by it?

When I used to teach fundraising to my students, two of the things I tried to emphasise dealt precisely with this issue. Firstly, funders will have stated objectives and criteria, and you will only achieve the funding if you are meeting those objectives - you have to satisfy THEIR needs. On the other hand, you have specific reasons for wanting to do the project, and you cannot let those be altered out of all recognition to meet a funder's criteria. Before you start, know which bits you are willing to compromise on - and which bits you aren't. If a funder wants you to change those core beliefs and values, then they're probably not right for you. Go and look for another funder. To do otherwise is to let the tail wag the dog, and can ultimately be very damaging.

Remember that Katy, when she arrives, will not be working in isolation - she'll be working closely with the National Council. It's part of our job, as trustees of the society, to make sure that those core objectives of EFDSS remain the top priority.