Highland charity Inspiring Young Voices, based in Inverness, has marked the retirement of Gillian Newman
A HIGHLAND charity has said farewell to its own “legend” after 14 years of dedicated service.
Inspiring Young Voices, based in Inverness, has marked the retirement of Gillian Newman who is their highly respected policy lead.
It organised a lunch in her honour where friends and colleagues described her as a “legend” whose energy, commitment and passion were matched with an inspiring and vibrant personality.
She was recognised by all as the strongest of advocates for the rights of children and young people whose work and legacy will be enduring.
At last year’s Highland Third Sector Awards she received a lifetime achievement award in recognition of her valuable and tireless work on behalf of children and young people.
She started at the charity as a consultation worker with a passion for inclusion and giving children a voice. As policy lead she sought to ensure that the voice of children and young people changed policy and practice.
Norman MacAskill, the charity’s chairman, presented her with a framed tribute and garden centre vouchers, reflecting her passion for horticulture.
He said: “Working with Gillian has been an extraordinary pleasure and a privilege. She will be missed by everyone who knew her, including many who she locked horns with in her tireless commitment to ensuring that the voices of children and young people are heard and listened to where it will make a difference.
“Since she announced her retirement, there has been an outpouring of respect, admiration and, yes, love for Gillian – as well as a strong sense that she will be very hard to replace.
“She has helped to build the reach and the reputation of our powerful wee charity and left us with a long list of work that we must get on with in her absence. We wish Gillian happiness and good health in her well-deserved retirement.”
Inspiring Young Voices, which was formerly known as Highland Children and Young People’s Forum, works to enable children and young people with additional support needs to take control of their lives.
It promotes their rights, supports their participation and empowers them to have a greater say in decisions.
