Beginning in 1968, Sue was a fundraiser and helped to set up two Abbeyfield houses in Henleaze in her hometown.
Sue subsequently took up positions as the Treasurer, and then Director, of the Abbeyfield Bristol Society (now the Abbeyfield Bristol & Keynsham Society), taking on the management of nine houses. The Society went through a difficult few years and some of the houses had to close. However, Sue worked hard to ensure that all the residents affected were moved into more suitable accommodation and that their needs were met.
Today, Sue continues to volunteer as an assessor for Abbeyfield houses in Bristol and the South-West, ensuring that they meet the high standards that Abbeyfield is famed for. She also sits on the West Regional Council and Chairs the Area Group.
She is a trusted and vital part of the Regional Abbeyfield Council and somebody who I go to, as Chair of that Council, if I need advice. She has a wealth of knowledge and is happy to share which is vital when dealing with such a large Region. She is a very well respected friend and somebody I couldn’t do without on my Council. – Suzanne Goeghegan, Chair of the Regional Council
The Lord Mayor’s Medals, of which there were 14 recipients this year, honour some of the city’s finest citizens, who have made a significant contribution to their communities and improving the lives of local people.
Aside from her work with Abbeyfield, Sue has also been nominated for her work as a member of the Soroptimist International Club of Bristol, helping to raise funds for good causes at local, regional and national levels since 1985; helping to raise funds for charity and host events as an active member of All Saints Church in Clifton; her voluntary work for the Redland High School for girls, at a fundraising and formerly a governance level; and for her previous roles as a trustee of Young Bristol and Age UK Bristol.
Marion Reid, who nominated Sue for her medal, said: “Sue epitomises the essentials of unselfish volunteering and helping others. She has given her dedication and long-standing selfless commitment to many charities throughout Bristol. She is one who steps forward when she sees a ‘need’.”