About Me
Originally from Durham, I settled in South Wales 10 years ago when I took up the role as Welfare Adviser at the University of Wales Institute Cardiff (UWIC), a university with a commitment to widening access to education for all those with ability. Within a short space of time I had started to specialise in providing support to our disabled students. This work subsequently developed into a specific department for disabled students and UWIC now has a national reputation for the services it provides - we're really proud to currently have the highest number of disabled students studying at a university in Wales. I am committed to disability rights and in recognition of my work was awarded the title of Welsh Woman of the Year in November 2005.
I am involved in a number of disability organisations and professional bodies all working to ensure people have the opportunity of fulfilling their potential. I continue to work with community groups across Cardiff and throughout Wales and see my entry into politics as being an extension of my work in the community -- representing people’s views and ensuring everyone has a voice.
My thoughts on Politics
I’ve been politically aware all of my adult life and am clear that we must take responsibility for our communities and the challenges they face. Like many people I’ve been disappointed by the actions of some politicians and all parties, and at times have felt betrayed. At the same time I know many politicians (of all political persuasions) who are deeply committed to improving our quality of life and making life better for all. I value honesty and integrity and want those who represent me to value those principles too.
I’ve worked with voluntary organisations and charities for many years and am frustrated that the key work they undertake isn’t always acknowledged, nor supported by the Government. I’m also frustrated by the barriers I face in trying to undertake my role. My passion is ensuring that everyone is given the opportunity of fulfilling their potential, that when we think of improving services or our quality of life we think of the least advantaged first. My priority is Social Justice - so how are we going to achieve that?
My thoughts on Compassionate Conservatism
To create and develop high quality public services we need to create the conditions for economic growth. By doing this we are creating an environment where Education, the NHS and everything else we hold dear can flourish. I’m determined to challenge the mis-represented view that the Conservative Party is only concerned with those with wealth and power. To quote Cameron: The test of a strong and just society is how it looks after the least advantaged
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The election of Cameron as the leader of the Conservative Party was my wake up call to get involved and make my contribution to creating that strong and just society. I’ve joined the Conservative Party because under Cameron’s leadership we’re prioritising Social Justice, the Environment, Public Services and Green Growth. They’re my priorities and those of millions of people - by working together we can secure this for Wales. Want to join me?
