Independent Member – Local Authority

Helen has a master's degree in European Governance and Public Policy from Cardiff University, and a Diploma in Management. Before becoming elected in 2022, Helen worked in policy and research at the Senedd and at anti-poverty think tank the Bevan Foundation. Helen has also worked at the European Commission and in the third sector in community development.

Helen has been a Blaenau Gwent County Borough Councillor since May 2022, representing the Llanhilleth ward. As Deputy Leader of the Council she has held two portfolio areas of Neighbourhood and Environment and Adults and Communities respectively.

In her role as councillor, Helen serves on a number of Boards, including the board of Data Cymru, the Gwent Regional Partnership Board and the board of Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations (GAVO). She is also a Local Authority appointed governor at Swffryd Primary School and St Illtyd’s Primary School and an observer to the board of Tai Calon. Between 2013 and 2017 Helen also served as a Councillor on Abertillery and Llanhilleth Community Council.