The High Sheriff of Berkshire

Last Friday, I was invited to take part in the AI Skills Summit at Bracknell and Wokingham College. Initially, I thought it might be better suited to my predecessor, High Sheriff Sean Taylor of Redwood Technologies! However, after reading the brief, I realised it was a fantastic opportunity to contribute to an important discussion.

The panel explored how communities, partners and users can work together to harness AI for good.

One example that has stayed with me came from a workshop delivered by X-Forces Enterprise and the brilliant team at Active Plus. A delegate in his 60s, who had hidden his dyslexia for most of his life, was introduced to ChatGPT. Seeing how it could help him overcome a barrier he had faced for decades was a powerful reminder of AI’s potential to make a real difference.

Alongside experts Paul Towers, Michael Quick and Patrick Kelly-Goss, we explored both the opportunities AI presents and the need for caution. My thanks to our chair, Kim Blanchard, for bringing the discussion together.

Throughout my year as High Sheriff, I have seen the value of bringing education providers, employers and service organisations together to drive positive change. This event was an excellent example of what those partnerships can achieve.

I also enjoyed meeting students from the Uniformed Protective Services course, who volunteered at the event and shared their ambitions for the future. One even asked me who my favourite Disney Princess is. For the record, it’s Cinderella! 😉

Finally, it was great to bring Dan Flynn from my team along and hear his younger perspective on AI during the journey there and back. Reverse mentoring at its best!

Thank you to everyone involved in organising such an engaging event, and to the students who made such a positive impression.

#HighSheriffOfBerkshire #AISkillsSummit #Education #Partnerships #YoungPeople BerkshireCommunity ConveningForGood …

From the very beginning of my time as High Sheriff, my predecessors told me I would meet incredible people and organisations. They were right, from day one.

Yesterday was no exception. I spent time with Compass Recovery College and was in awe of the team and what they make possible. They bring people together to create safe, thoughtful and tailored pathways for those living with mental health challenges, helping each person discover their strengths and move towards the life they want.

I was privileged to join a panel with Lara from the Compass team, the Mayor of Reading, one of the College’s founders, Callum, who came to Compass as a beneficiary and is now a team lead, and his mum, whose journey took her from volunteer to member of the team. We also heard from someone who had been a beneficiary and is now volunteering. Each person shared a powerful story of connection, confidence and progress.

I’ll admit, after a busy day in the office, I wondered how I would fit in a couple of hours of attending this 10 year anniversary. I’m so glad I did.

Thank you, Team Compass, for filling my soul with light, making me smile and inspiring me. Your work gives us a glimpse of the kinder, happier society we can build when people come together and support one another.

You made my day. 💛 Happy 10th Anniversary and here`s to the next decade! …

The Judiciary and the Judicial Service

I promised to share some reflections on the themes of Berkshire’s Judicial Service, held on 9 October.
A week ago, we gathered at Reading Minster to mark the opening of the Justice Year. The service gives us a moment to recognise the work of the judiciary and everyone who helps justice to be served across our county. It also invites us to reflect on why that work remains so important today.

Judges carry a profound responsibility. They listen carefully, weigh the evidence and apply the law with independence and fairness. Their work calls for sound judgement and humanity: justice must be upheld, while mercy and compassion remain part of how we understand and serve one another.

As High Sheriff, I have a ceremonial role in supporting the judiciary. It was a privilege to welcome so many judges to the service and reception, and to thank them for their commitment to Berkshire and its communities.

Did you know that magistrates are volunteers? They give their time to hear cases and make decisions that affect people’s lives and communities. I’m grateful to them, and to everyone who serves the cause of justice across Berkshire.

I also want to offer my heartfelt thanks to Jonathan Gater, Under Sheriff of Berkshire and a partner at Blandy & Blandy. Jonathan has served as Under Sheriff for many years and has been a constant source of guidance and support to successive High Sheriffs, particularly on matters involving the legal system. His care in bringing the judges together and helping the day run so smoothly meant a great deal.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to all who work to uphold justice across Berkshire. …