When I left school I joined the Civil Service, working in the Crown Court and the County Court. When I returned to work after maternity leave I decided to leave the Civil Service and obtain a professional qualification which would allow me to do a job which challenged me mentally and gave me some responsibility. I did 2 A levels at night school and then joined a firm of solicitors who paid my Ilex fees and gave me time off to attend college and University. It was hard work running a house, looking after a child, working full time and studying but I passed all my exams and when I became a Fellow I was successful in obtaining a position as Charted Legal Executive with Durham Constabulary. I am responsible for investigating and handling all claims against the force and have a small team to assist me. I am part of the senior management team. In January 2017 I will have been with the force for 20 years and will be eligible to collect my Long Service Award. I love my job and feel I am making a difference. This would not have been possible without determination to succeed, my long suffering husband and the professional qualification from Cilex.