I have worked in the public sector and have been a trade union member for all my working life. I have been interested in politics for many years. I am on the Labour Party List for my contribution in developing the Millmead Community Mutual Children’s Centre in Kent which was the first in the UK. My commitment to public service has been acknowledged through being honoured with an MBE for services to children and families. I am a member of the Cooperative Party, a school governor at two schools.. I want to stand up for ordinary working people and ensure their perspective is represented at a local and national level. I am particularly interested in child poverty and concerned that there are very many children living in poverty in the East Surrey constituency. I am also very concerned about the huge cut in education under this Tory government.
My Labour Party and work experience:
I am secretary of the Faversham and Mid Kent Constituency Labour Party and the treasurer of the Kent Labour Forum. I have experience of working in London, Kent and also in the USA where I experiences a different health care and education system. I worked with ethnic minority families, travellers and asylum seekers and gained an understanding of integration, multi-culturalism and equality issues. I have undertaken study tours to France and New Zealand and won a travel scholarship to Russia where I broadened my understanding of partnership working in different healthcare and political systems. As CEO of the new organisation I set up, which employed over fifty staff I gained a wide range of experience in governance, staff recruitment, management, staff appraisals, performance management, delivering outcomes, value for money, parent participation and community involvement.
Studies and personal life:
I have recently completed my PhD research study and was awarded the degree of PhD earlier this year. I am married to Ash, a consultant psychologist and we have two adult children who work in London. One is a lawyer and one works as a production manager. We have two adorable grandchildren aged seven and five. Our dog is called Millie and we have two cats. I enjoy gardening, reading, current affairs, travel, campaigning and most of all spending time with family especially the grandchildren.
