"Inspirational" woman honoured for 25 years of charity work

Wednesday 08 March 2017

Staff at a Jersey charity have paid tribute to their colleague after she was named 'Inspirational Women of the Year' today.

Susan Kelly has been Treasurer of Jersey Mencap for over 25 years, and today her colleagues said she, "...has genuine passion for the cause and gives up many hours of her personal time aside from her job as an accountant."

The award was presented today by Jersey Women's Refuge to coincide with International Women's Day. It was sponsored by Barclays.  

Alex Wiles, Manager at Jersey Mencap said they are ‘delighted’ that Susan has been recognised for all her hard work.

He said: “Sue forms part of the Committee and for many years, has been treasurer to this long standing charity which offers support and opportunities to people living with a learning disability in Jersey.

“Sue has genuine passion for the cause and gives up many hours of her personal time aside from her job as an accountant.   A caring and compassionate woman who through her tireless volunteering inspires so many.  We are delighted that Sue has received this award in recognition of her hard work for Jersey Mencap.”

In addition to dedicating 25 years to Jersey Mencap, Susan was the primary carer for her daughter Rachael who had severe and multiple learning difficulties until she passed away 5 years ago aged 25. 

She also helped raise significant funds for Mont A L'Abbe School and Oakwell Children's Home.

Pictured: Susan Kelly (second in from the left) helping to fundraise for Jersey Mencap.

19 nominations were received by the charity this year for a total of 14 nominees. The charity announced their shortlist for the award which included the winner Susan Kelly, as well as Cirsty de Gruchy and Lauren Perchard- Rees.

Cirsty De Gruchy is a Day Hospice Care and Therapies Services Manager at Jersey Hospice and founder of Little Miracles Charity and Lauren Perchard-Rees is CEO and Cancer Specialist at Macmillan.

Jersey Women’s Refuge said the judges on the panel had a difficult task to choose the finalists this year.

Jenny New, Director at Barclays, who sat on the judging panel said: “Once again we had an incredibly difficult task in identifying a winner, as there were so many wonderful nominations for amazing women.

"Susan’s story of unwavering commitment and support on an honorary basis to Jersey Mencap demonstrates great resilience, generosity of spirit and dedication against a backdrop of difficult personal circumstances. She is truly inspirational.”