I grew up  on Islay and returned to live here to bring up my  own family. I currently work as a Health Visitor on Islay and Jura; I am  passionate about  improving local resources and opportunities for   people with additional support needs.  

I have worked in education on Islay for more than 25 years and I have a special interest in supporting those with additional support needs. I am proud to be involved with Sidekick and I am looking forward to seeing all people on Islay and Jura who are living with additional support needs being supported to lead full and active lives.

I am wife to Will and proud mum to 3 boys, of which our youngest Adam is Autistic. Adam is 17! We are so lucky to live on Islay but as a family we feel anxious for Adam’s future the older he gets. Being part of Sidekick I hope to create resources and support that will enrich the lives of children and adults on Islay and Jura with a disability or neurodiverse condition.

Being mum to our young adult daughter with autism I am enjoying be part of the fantastic Sidekick Team, who realise by working together we can help provide easier access to fun,  outdoor activities and help people be more involved in local community activities. Our daughter is now thoroughly enjoying weekly cycle rides, which wasn’t possible before

I am passionate about making Islay and Jura more inclusive. Offering activities and support and allowing people to live life to their fullest potential.

I have recently retired from teaching. I love the outdoors and am keen to support any projects that allow a wider range of people to access our fantastic environment. Sidekick can give many opportunities to develop new skills and confidence in those it supports.

I became involved in Sidekick as I wanted to help assist young people and adults on the island with additional needs,  enabling them to enhance their abilities . I am a retired nurse and spent my career working in the NHS, as a staff nurse and public health nurse on Islay and Jura. 

I feel very privileged to be involved with Sidekick and its work in facilitating positive change in our community for people with additional support needs. I am Aspy/ ADHD. Love dogs, dooking and little things that can become big adventures.