I am a Community Fundraiser for Parents and Children Together, having changed career from financial services to the charity sector in 2019. My new career combines all the skills, experience and networks I have gained since I started working in 1997 and is very rewarding. I am a trustee for Reading Pride and campaign for equality, focusing on women and disability. I was awarded the University of Reading's Alumna of the Year 2015 due to my work within the community of Reading as a councillor and Deputy Mayor.I am also a Labour councillor for Battle Ward, Reading, Chair of the Art and Heritage Forum and chair of the Cultural Education Partnership. I am also chair of the Housing, NeighbourhoodsandLeisureCommittee. I was Deputy Mayor of Reading 2014/2015 and Mayor of Reading 2015/2016. I raised over £30,000 for my designated charities while I was mayor. My hobbies are reading, sewing (making clothes and embroidery), gardening, growing food in my small urban garden, archaeology and holidaying in the UK with the occasional trip further afield. I also support Nature Nurture on a freelance basis, helping with their fundraising and project work.