Personal Statement: 

I live in Scotlandwell, near Kinross with my husband, Nick and adult disabled son, Archie. After a career of over thirty years in teaching, including over ten years of leading a Language Department, I took early retirement to become Archie’s unpaid carer and further my political career.
 As an approved Parliamentary Candidate, I am on the Mid Scotland and Fife Regional List, MSP Candidate for Perthshire South and Kinross-shire and a Ward champion in a 150+ Rising Target Ward. I stood in the General Election in Perth and Kinross-shire in July 2024 whilst also supporting campaigns in North East Fife and other target seats.
 I am a graduate of the Future Leaders’ Course 2023/24 where I learnt much about planning campaigns, messaging and canvassing.
 A veritable local champion I volunteer regularly for the Anti- Poverty Charity in Kinross and the local Gala Committee. I am also a member of the Portmoak Community Council.
 In my me time I love walking round the Loch Leven Heritage Trail and on Fife’s beaches.
 I love jigging aka completing puzzles whilst listening to a Podcast usually Political!
 

What skills/experience will you bring to the role?

Being an active campaigner, carer and community champion, I believe I have many skills and experiences to offer the Executive Committee over the next two years. I have canvassed and delivered in many elections since 2019. I will be very actively engaged over the next eighteen months in the Scottish Government and Local Elections. It will be important to have input from an Executive Member who is literally on the chalk face /doorsteps this important election period.
 I am a retired teacher of 30 years and now an Unpaid Carer for our Adult Disabled son. As a member of the Policy Committee since January 24, I have regularly attended meetings. I have used my professional and personal experiences to work up and summate motions on Supporting Child Bereavement, ASN Education and Young Carers.
Now that I have had the opportunity of working as part of a team discussing and scrutinising manifestos for the General Election and Scottish Parliament, I would bring this knowledge and experience to the Executive Committee.
 I have a good understanding of Scottish elections and government at all levels.

What do you hope to achieve if elected?

If elected to the Executive Committee I would hope to support the Scottish Liberal Democrats through the next two exciting years by contributing my personal and professional skills as highlighted in the above sections. 
I would hope that I could contribute to very successful Holyrood and 150 Rising campaigns with my energy, enthusiasm, expertise and experience. I am committed and reliable.
 I believe it is important that we have a diverse Committee with members with a range of life and professional skills. As a campaigner carer, teacher, leader and community volunteer I have much to offer the Convener and my fellow committee members.