Edna Bell | Aberdeen Centre for Evaluation | The University of Aberdeen

Edna Bell

Edna tells us about her varied career, her volunteering roles and that she joined the PIP group to help the public better understand leaflets and clinical documents.

Tell us about your role in ACE: I joined the PPI group in 2018 eager to help with the tasks HSRU (now ACE) were asked to review, leaflets and grant applications, to help the public better understand leaflets and clinical documents.
Tell us a bit about your background and what you do now: I started my career years ago in the pension department of an insurance company in Edinburgh, while at the same time studying at night school for Personnel Management to earn IPM qualifications. I dipped my toe into other departments connected to personnel roles. I took a wide sweep and, for two years, worked for the City of Edinburgh Police as a police female assistant, primarily as a wireless operator. Upon marriage, I became a farmer's wife, and following a year of living and working in Ontario, Canada, we returned to pig farming in Aberdeenshire. I am a mother of three sons, and while they were growing up, I was a member of the Children's Panel in 1974 and served in that role for 12 years. I was also a volunteer for Save the Children. I eventually resumed my chosen career as a Training Officer with Grampian Regional Council. Throughout my adult life, I have been a leader in the Girl Guides and a Trainer of Adult Leaders.
What is your favourite thing about your role in ACE?: I enjoy and appreciate the support and interaction between the members of the group - very friendly and welcoming people. I also enjoy the challenge and variety of tasks given to us and the outcomes which eventually help others.
How do you usually start your day?: Tea and cereal, check the diary, and ready myself for whatever is happening.
How do you relax?: I make quilts, play the piano, enjoy orchestral and choral music, sing with friends, do crosswords, and spend time in the garden, which I designed and maintained myself until recently, besides socialising with family and friends. Time spent with my grandchildren, who are adults, is very special. Since retirement, my husband and I have enjoyed travelling to many far-flung places around the world and close to home.
What was the last thing you posted on your social media profiles?: I only use Facebook, and recently I posted a video of ballet and photos of flowers in my garden.