Interview with former Councillor Karen Aldred
How much do we really know about our councillors? We may have spoken to them when we have an issue but apart from that we don’t really know the person behind the public image. I understand that Karen Aldred is no longer a councillor for Atherton ward but she has served for 14 years helping hundreds of us over this time period, so I thought it would be nice to find out alittle more about her.
This week, I’ve sat down with former Cllr Karen Aldred to find out a little more information than just what we read in the paper or newsletters… here is how our little Q & A session went? – Keep an eye out for my cheeky notes 🙂
Name:
Karen Aldred
Occupation:
I began work after leaving college at Manor Fold EPH for 10 years as a qualified chef, then I moved into the pharmacy industry as I wanted to have a more face to face contact with the people I would help. I worked my way up to a technician level 3 after 14 years in the profession in chemists within Atherton, Tyldesley, Leigh & Little Hulton.
At this time, my father in law became very ill with Dementia, so I left the pharmacy profession to help the family with the increased difficulties that arose. I later joined the family firm with my husband and son in 2011 to build the company to be the highest level locksmith training college in the UK alongside 10 other great members of staff.
I have served as a councillor for Atherton ward between 2004 – 2018, as I have always had a passion for helping people, so despite being the only Labour councillor for most of this time fighting as a single voice, i really enjoyed my time in office. It was a shame that mud slinging and bullying on social media from opposition party supporters, which frankly were completely false led to me losing my seat however I now have more time to get involved in the community and to expand the local Dementia charity, I help to set up. – I actually read some of these post myself and the people should be shamed of themselves.
Favourite Quote:
“When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.” – What an inspiring quote! I actually love the work of Helen Keller
Achievements:
Becoming Mayoress of the Wigan Borough between 2009-20010. Also serving as a councillor bringing to life projects like Bluebell Boundary, Atherton Cenotaph and helped the parliamentary bill about dog microchipping. – I actually didn’t know Cllr Aldred helped with the dog microchipping, I rescued a dog and the vets got it home within 2 hours because it had a chip… Well Done Karen 🙂
Qualifications:
NVQ level 3 in Leadership & Management, NVQ Level 3 in Pharmacy Technician, NVQ Level 3 in Catering & PTLLS to prepare for teaching qualification.
Hobbies & Interests –
Reading, Animals (actually trying to convince my husband ‘unsuccessfully’ to get a paddock) and Exploring – It sounds like Atherton might get it’s first Zoo if Karen gets her way haha
Volunteer Work –
Homelessness, Dementia Buddy, Atherton Environmental Projects & Bridger’s Community group
Council Committees –
Former Vice Chair of Health & Social Care
Former member of Confident Council
Former member of Children & Young people services
Former member of Standards
Former member of Audit & Governance
Former member of Cutacre Development
You actually a great inspiration Karen, I hope you find the time to restand as a councillor.. As you’ve got my vote!
www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
