What do you do at IUCSF?
I'm the Support after Suicide Lead for Sunderland & South Tyneside, offering emotional and practical support to individuals impacted by Suicide.
Describe why you’re at IUCSF?
Since first meeting Shirley, Dean and family in 2010, after raising funds to donate in memory of my brother Steven, whom we sadly lost to Suicide, I was drawn to the charity and the amazing work the Smith family had started in memory of Daniel. Both my sister Michelle and I became Trustees from a family perspective, and was so proud to see the Foundation continue to grow. In 2017 when the opportunity arose, I was honoured to receive a Support Worker role. Every day the Foundation gives me the opportunity to thrive and I truly believe I have found my vocation. It is an honour to support each and every person through their own personal journey, and to be a part of an amazing team, although we all wish, it’s a role we didn’t have to fulfil.
If you could travel to anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I would love to do a world cruise!, one for when I retire maybe? Only 20years to go then.
What are some things that make you happy?
Spending quality time with family and friends, seeing them smile and thrive,
Planning holidays,
Booking holidays,
Going on holidays!
Watching Gogglebox, although not whilst on holiday!
What is your favourite biscuit, and why?
Tough one as I try not to eat them! Granola cookies are just yummy though.
Anything else you would like to share with the world?
I’m double jointed in nearly every joint and I once had a 1-1 chat with Andrew Ridgeley from Wham whilst George Micheal was in the loo!