Karen has lived locally in Marske and the surrounding area for all of her life, and was a pupil at Bydales School. A Marske councillor since 2015, a former Mayor and deputy leader of the Council, she is on several scrutiny committees and is an active volunteer with Marske Community Partnership supporting its extensive work within the community. Karen was a founder member of the Redcar and Cleveland Business Network and helped to set up the coronavirus support group. Karen actively appealed against the closure of Marske Medical Centre and the large housing development South of Marske, representing residents at appeals and the regulatory committee. She is the compare of and a mentor for the Inspiring Women Programme and Awards. A former teenage foster carer she is passionate about supporting all children but especially those in care and care leavers.