I've worked in the Adult Social Care sector for 15 years and worked with people suffering from severe mental illness, at very difficult times in their lives.
Throughout my professional career I was committed to working with people with mental health needs and their families in order to help them make meaningful change in their lives. For many years I was a Relate Counsellor.
Since retiring, I have worked with Charitable Trusts and Community Interest Companies such as Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind as a volunteer Trustee and/or Director.
I am also a committed member of the Anglican Church, and take my Christian faith very seriously.
I've been married for 52 years, have four adult married sons, and seven grandchildren. My hobbies include gardening, reading, studying classical literature and social history and spending time in the countryside when time allows. Challenging trips abroad get fitted in as well!