…..Raised in North East Wales, I have lived and worked in Wrexham all my adult life, including twenty years working at Wrexham Maelor Hospital.
My interest in politics stems from a desire to see positive change in my community and a deep rooted belief in social justice. Having been a Labour Member, Activist and Union Member for many years, it was a natural progression for me to become a community councillor.
I then went on to work as a Constituency Assistant to Wrexham MP Ian Lucas, before running for election to the National Assembly for Wales.
In May 2007 the people of Wrexham put their faith in me by electing me to represent them in the Senedd. Since then I have tried to repay this trust by working hard.
As a back bench AM, I sat on several committees including the Communities and Culture, Sustainability and Audit Committees and Legislation Committee No. 5. I set up and chaired the Cross Party Hospice Group.
Within the Welsh Government, I was appointed Deputy Minister for Science, Innovation and Skills from December 2009 until May 2011.
Following my re-election in May, 2011 I was appointed Minister for Health and Social Services.
A strong supporter of devolution for Wales, I was active in the 1997 'Yes for Wales' campaign and also for a 'yes' vote in this year's overwhelmingly successful referendum to secure legislative powers for Wales.
Outside of politics, my interests include music, walking and supporting Wrexham Football Club. I have also served as a school governor and have two daughters, one at university and one at the local FE College.
This site aims to provide to keep you as up to date as possible, however if you have any further enquiries, be sure to get in touch.