Chief Executive and Clinical Director of Kids Inspire, Sue Bell OBE, has been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant for the County of Essex by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst.

The role of a Deputy Lieutenant is to assist the Lord Lieutenant in the performance of any public duties. Sue's appointment is a recognition of her public service, her integrity, and her extensive knowledge and expertise, all of which she will bring, as and when required, to the work of the Lieutenancy.

"Being appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant for the county of Essex is both a privilege and a great honour," said Sue. "This appointment is not only a personal tribute but also a reflection of Kids Inspire’s positive impact on the county. Our charity's work supports thousands of children and their families across Essex and beyond to recover from trauma and thrive.

I look forward to working with the Lord Lieutenant, Jennifer Tolhurst, and engaging in my role as Deputy Lieutenant for the county."

Sue founded Kids Inspire in 2007 as a qualified Teacher and Counsellor specialising in helping individuals with emotional, behavioural, and developmental issues. Sue has thirty years’ experience of working therapeutically with children and young people. 

She is a qualified and experienced Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and NeuroAffective Touch Practitioner. Sue is currently studying for a Professional Doctorate in Public Works (with a focus on a model of trauma therapy).

Deputy Lieutenants are people known for the service they have given or are giving through public life, charitable activity, voluntary service or the uniformed services.  They are appointed by the Lord-Lieutenant, subject to confirmation that The King does not disapprove.

You can view the official announcement on the London Gazette site.