Teresa Devereux

I was bought up in a mining village and was the fourth of six children. I loved school and had great fun, but didn't start studying until I was in my thirties and had two children.. I have been married for 32 years and have three grandchildren. Apart from writing and being with the grandchildren I spend most of my spare time playing tennis.

I have a degree in Psychology and Social Policy and qualified as a social worker in 2001. I worked in a children and families team for eight years before moving into children with disabilities and then becoming a manager. I now work part time as an Independent Reviewing Officer, chairing reviews for children who are in foster care and my role is to ensure the local authority are providing adequate care for the children and all their needs are being met. I am a supporter of social justice and equality of opportunities and believe that every child, whatever their background, race or ethnicity, deserves the best chance to have a happy and fulfilling life and to reach their full potential.