A story of how Citizen Advocacy supported Susan to start living her best life.
Sue and Susan have known each other for over 20 years. During this time, Sue has been Susan’s Citizen Advocate and has supported her to get the good things in life.
One of these good things was a place to call home. Susan lived in a group home for many years, but it wasn’t a place where she felt relaxed or in control. In this presentation, Sue described Susan’s steps to move into a place of her own.
In July 2021, just before Susan turned 67, she hosted a PATH plan that drew inspiration from the NZ Aging Well Strategy. Susan is well on her way to living her best life.
About Sue
Sue Robertson has more than 30 years of experience in the disability sector. She has dedicated her career to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and is a fearless champion for families. Sue has spoken internationally on inclusion, family leadership and family governance. She is a facilitator of PATH plans and bespoke personal planning.
Somewhere in this journey, Sue completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences and a Diploma in Care Coordination to add to her teaching qualifications. She learns constantly from leaders and mentors with lived experiences of impairment, especially about the disabling impact of societal attitudes about disability. She is encouraged by stories from people who generously share their insights and wisdom.
Sue is currently is Change and Practice Manager with a large disability service provider in New Zealand. In this role, she co-designs and manages projects and initiatives that influence how current and future services are delivered.
Sue is a trustee for the Disability Trustee Ltd and an Advisor for Family Network. For nearly 20 years, Sue has been a Citizen Advocate for her friend Susan. Sue has previously worked for Imagine Better as the Family Strategy Manager in New Zealand. She was involved in the development of the NZ Autism Guidelines.
Sue lives in New Zealand with her husband Neil. They have three adult children. Katie, their middle child, has been in the first wave of social change since she was born in 1984. Katie lives a great life and has been a source of inspiration for all members of their family.