1. What made you want to become a rep?
There was a vacancy on station, and a colleague asked would I be interested. I’ve always been up for a new challenge so thought I’d give it a go. That was nearly six years ago. I’ve since moved from station to brigade level and now I’m working on a national level on new projects.
2. What is your proudest achievement as a rep?
Standing up in conference and seeing my resolution being passed. I wanted to make a positive change to help those no matter where they are based. Since being diagnosed as neurodiverse, it’s been a huge rollercoaster, but I quickly saw that others have been and may be on a similar journey. I saw there were gaps where help could be provided and knew that was my calling.
3. Who are your ultimate heroes?
My watch members, past and present. They have stuck by me through my highest and lowest times. They listen to my endless “good ideas” no matter what time of night. My partner Lois for putting up with me and my ever-changing schedule, phone calls at all times of the day and being my partner in crime to cry, vent and laugh with.
4. Describe yourself in three words.
Determined, enthusiastic and passionate.
5. What was the last conversation you had that made you think differently about something?
With my watch manager Neil, who is always the voice of reason. Running any idea past him, he will always be supportive and enthusiastic, but will always show me the other side of the story and the bigger picture, no matter how stubborn I can be about it.
6. Which TV show could you not live without – and – What’s your favourite band/musician?
The US Office, because we all know a real-life Michael Scott. As for music, anything that originated in the 80s.
7. If you weren’t a firefighter, what would you be?
I’d have loved to have been a pilot. Unfortunately, I don’t have a spare £150,000 for the training. But I knew from day one I wanted to follow my dad as a firefighter, and I was lucky enough to join full time at 18.
8. If you could travel back or forward in time, where and when would you travel to and why?
I’d have loved to have lived through the 70s and 80s. It has always appealed to me for some reason. Maybe I’ve watched too much Life on Mars.
