The BIG Interview - Celia Golden from Hounslow Council
In Speak Out News this time, Susan Carini interviews Celia Golden
- Head of Equalities & Human Rights at Hounslow Council.
Hello Celia, what does your job involve?
I advise the Council when they are changing
policies to make sure they include people
with disabilities, older people, ethnic
minorities and gay and lesbian people.
What do you like most about the job?
I like being able to change things & make life
in Hounslow better for people. I get a buzz
from pushing until things get done.
What are you working on at the moment?
I’ve been working with Speak Out to bring
the Support Worker Promise into Council
policy. I’m also working with bus companies
to help train their drivers on what support
disabled people need from them. I am also
organising a conference (28th Oct) for blind
people and those who support them.
What makes you angry?
I get angry when disabled residents struggle
to get their issue dealt with. So I work with
departments to put things right for people.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like gardening & flowers. I read a lot. I like
reading science books as my son is a
Physicist. So I try to keep up with him!
Tell me something surprising about you.
Well, I am proud to say that back in 1984, I
was the first black woman in South Africa to
be given a job as as a town planner.
Celia, thanks for letting me interview you.
You’re welcome Susan, it’s been a highlight
4
of my career!