Liz was formerly Chairman of Suffolk County Council, an honour she describes as a privilege. She served on the Borough Council for 23 years, including 6½ years as Leader, making significant improvements to Ipswich. During her tenure, the town adopted a pioneering multi-agency approach to tackling street prostitution, now used nationally. She is patron of Talitha Koum, supporting women who have been exploited, and Family First, which helps families prevent breakdown and homelessness.
Passionate about opportunities for young people, Liz has been deeply involved in education. She was Chair of Audit Risk at Suffolk New College, a trustee of the Raedwald Trust, and supported Pupil Referral Units Parkside and the Lindbergh Centre. She is also Chairman of The Ipswich Community Playbus, offering free early play and family support, and a member of the Foundation Development Trust at Ipswich School.
A founder of Greener Ipswich CIC and Friends of Holywells Park (where she serves as Secretary), Liz has worked closely with local authorities to advance community projects. During her year as Chairman of Suffolk County Council, she supported the Eden-Rose Coppice Trust, IHAG, and Cancer Support Suffolk.
An active member of the Rotary Club of Ipswich East, Liz was President during the pandemic and has been Secretary of Ipswich Suffolk Business Club for over 14 years. Her long-standing commitment to public service, education, and community projects continues to make a real difference across Ipswich and Suffolk