Mary is originally from Beckford in Worcestershire and has lived in Worcester for many years.  For the last 30 years she been self employed working as a mental health user consultant, some may call it lived experience consultant these days.  In this capacity Mary works for a number of universities, including Worcester on their IMPACT scheme, advising staff and interviewing potential students, particularly involving topics around mental health.

She had previously studied for and gained HND business studies and post graduate diploma in Advanced Marketing from Bristol Polytechnic, she went on to work for several years in marketing research with Audits of Great Britain Ltd and with Quaker Oats Ltd and continues to be involved in many aspects of community-based research.

Mary was member of Mental Health Act Commission board, giving a unique perspective on people suffering from all forms of mental health conditions. She currently continues this enthusiasm as a member of Worcestershire County Council Safeguarding board.  She has also been an accomplished public speaker at national and international conferences, having also previously attained the post of President of West of England Rotary EClub, among so many other positions.

Recently, she has completed NCVO Safeguarding training online, and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)