Initially born in Southwick I was educated at St. Thomas Aquinas and later St. Aidan's Schools before going to University where I received a BA (Hons) degree in Public Administration. Over the years I have not been able to dispel the education bug, attending university to obtain a post graduate qualification in Human Resources as well as an MA in Equal Opportunities.
Eventually I settled down in Redhouse, married, had two children and more recently two Grandsons. As for work, this has predominantly been in Education and I currently support schools working in partnership with North Tyneside Council.
I was first elected onto the Council in May 1990 and currently have the responsibility of Deputy Leader within cabinet, overseeing the council finances, Corporate Services and deputising for the Council Leader when required. Prior to being appointed to Cabinet I previously served 10 years as chair of Children's Services Scrutiny Committee on the Council.
I and my ward colleagues hold Ward Surgeries every first Wednesday of the month (excluding school holidays) between 6.00 pm and 7.00 pm at Willow Wood Community Primary School, every second Monday of the month (excluding school holidays) between 3.00 pm and 4.00 pm at the Downhill Hub and every last Wednesday of the month (excluding school holidays) between 10.30 am and 11.30 am at Redhouse Community Association.
As your City Councillor, the council’s data protection policy applies when I am carrying out council business. This explains your data protection rights and who to contact if you have a query about use of your data; https://www.sunderland.gov.uk/data-protection.
When working for you as your Ward Councillor, I respect your data protection rights and only use the personal data you provide as needed to respond to your enquiries. This can include sharing the information you provide with council officers and other services and organisations so I can get information to reply to you, which might include information about you and your circumstances. I also share information with other Councillors who may be able to help. If you would prefer me not to share your information with a particular person, or organisation please let me know when you contact me.
