Shirley grew up in Woodley and has lived in Whitegates (North Earley) for 27 years and has two grown up children. Shirley’s husband suffered with Multiple Sclerosis and she was his main carer for 17 years up until his death in 2017. During this time she experienced the social care system, the benefits system and almost every department in the NHS. Dealing with this day in day out, on top of the physical and mental demands of caring and bringing up a family is a constant battle which can only be won with patience, dogged determination and a healthy degree of scepticism for those in authority; Shirley’s experiences and attributes will be of great value in her role as councillor.