My job includes providing guidance, support, training and representation for the 230 Councils in Cheshire and enabling them in turn to support their communities and deliver services on their behalf.
I am a qualified clerk; counsellor (specialising in bereavement) and mediator and feel that the knowledge and skills I have gained in those fields enable me to do my job better.
In recent months I have made numerous TV appearances on a diverse range of fora; The Last Leg, Steph’s Packed Lunch, Good Morning Britain and have done interviews on radio on a range of subjects; Governance; Diversity; Equality and Bullying.
I have a Twitter following of over 33k, a popular podcast with diverse guests such as Anton du Beke; Rev Kate Botley and Jack Whitehall and have recently published ‘You do have the authority here’ which I like to think of as a little book of common sense.
I wanted to be a Doctor – so no haven’t planned but have remained open to any opportunities that have presented themselves along the way
It got busier!!! I am still very much involved in my ‘day job’ so life see saws from surreal (such as being made up to be one of the Walking Dead for a promotional video for Star on the Disney + channel) to delivering a training session that afternoon for 30 Councillors.
I thoroughly enjoyed writing the book – it was an opportunity to share my thoughts with a wider audience that I hope will get something out of it.
Its about being outcome focussed. Knowing what I want to achieve and not being side tracked. I think this works for all sorts of scenarios.
Look again at what it is you want to say. Is there another way of doing it – email; phone call etc then pick your time to contribute. Let the others get it off their collective chest before you come in. AND be concise!
Biggest barrier is lack of understanding – how to get involved and what can be achieved when you are involved. We have become disillusioned with politics because we feel we cant affect change. That might be true of National Politics but we can certainly make a difference locally.
I think of it as a little book of common sense. The kind of things that maybe your mum might have said – so hints and tips for managing meetings…and everyday life
I am committed to raising the profile of our Town and Parish Councils (Local Councils). I feel that if people better understood what they can achieve they would want to get involved.
I would also love to have my own programme where I work with people in finding solutions to their problems.
What would lockdown internet sensation Britney Spears, aka Jackie Weaver, do? Are you tired of being patronised, talked over and told to read the standing orders? (Perhaps not that last one.)
For every woman who has endured that I-know-what’s-best-for-you tone, this is the audiobook for you. The feminist political icon we didn’t know we needed, the indomitable Jackie Weaver shares her own standing orders for life:
No-nonsense, witty and incisive, Jackie Weaver will show you that you do have the authority here. This is an essential handbook for getting things done without fuss, keeping cool in the face of adversity and pressing mute on the noise
October
13/10/2025 - 17/10/2025 (All Day)(GMT+00:00)
The ground-breaking nationwide celebration of women in technology returns, featuring a week of dynamic online and
The ground-breaking nationwide celebration of women in technology returns, featuring a week of dynamic online and in-person events. Focused on career growth, networking, and innovation, this event continues to champion equality and empower women in the tech industry.
WeAreTechWomen is proud to present the second annual UK Women in Tech Week, taking place from October 13th to 17th, once again aligning with Ada Lovelace Day. This nationwide initiative brings together a vibrant line-up of virtual and in-person events celebrating the impact of women across the tech industry.
In partnership with leading organisations and Women in Tech networks, the week will offer inspiring panels, practical workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities. Through our website, attendees can easily book their spots for these events. Our master calendar for bookings will be released in the summer. Those who have registered their interest will receive priority booking.
Despite growing awareness, the sector still faces systemic challenges. Our upcoming Lovelace Report with Oliver Wyman has highlighted a number of issues around the broken systems that hinder the progression of women in the tech industry. Several reports over the past few years, including the Lovelace Report, cite that women are leaving the industry altogether. This talent drain is not only a loss of potential but is actively costing the UK economy billions of pounds each year.
With just 20% of the UK’s tech workforce made up of women—and with government commitments to scale the AI workforce—this is not the time to slow down. It’s time to step up.
For more information visit: women-in-tech-week.com
01nov09:0016:30KIN: Know. Inspire. Navigate | A Day for Women to Realign, Renew, and Rise
01/11/2025 09:00 - 16:30(GMT+00:00)
Henley Business School, Greenlands
Henley-on-Thames, RG9 3AU
Set on the tranquil banks of the River Thames, Henley’s historic Greenlands campus offers the perfect backdrop for a day of reflection, connection, and
Designed for early to mid-career women across industries who want practical tools they can use immediately, this one-day retreat follows the Kinspace KIN framework – Know, Inspire, Navigate – guiding you to:
This is not just a feel-good day. It’s sustainable learning – you will leave with your own action and implementation plan tailored to your life, so you can apply what you’ve learned immediately and keep building momentum long after the retreat.
In the afternoon, slow down and reconnect with your senses in a mindful pressed flower card crafting, writing to self and picture workshop. We’ll ask a few questions ahead of time so we can pair you by goals and stage, and tailor examples to your context. Then, step outdoors for a unique partner reflection in nature – partnering with both the landscape and each other to inspire deeper insight and grounded action.
To help you stay accountable and supported, you’ll have the option to join three monthly follow-up group sessions (at a separate price) designed to check in on your progress, troubleshoot challenges, and keep you moving towards your goals.
This is a confidential and supportive space with limited seats to ensure meaningful connection and participation.
Date: Saturday 1 November 2025
Time: 9:00 AM -4:30 PMT
Location: Henley Business School, Greenlands Henley-on-Thames
RG9 3AU
Price: £250 – Early Bird £200 until 10 September