To be awarded a DBE in the New Year's Honours List is very special for me and my family. My parents sent me to a nursery school when I was three years old. They would have been delighted to know I was made a Dame 57 years later.
This honour is recognition for the work I have done for families and children, both with my NSPCC colleagues and previously as a headteacher.
Most of all it is a recognition of the truly inspiring commitment of NSPCC staff, volunteers and supporters.
In 2007 it is as important as ever to keep the needs of children firmly in the public eye and on the political agenda. More and more adults are realising that they have a responsibility to help children and can act to make a positive difference to children's lives.
There is still much to be done to make cruelty to children stop. We will not take our foot off the pedal. This year we will continue to build on the great progress made by the FULL STOP campaign and appeal. Through our online counselling service we aim to give even more children and young people someone to turn to.
My work in education taught me the importance of the early years. Visiting NSPCC projects that work with younger children reminds me how vulnerable they are. It also reminds me how much parents need support, particularly to deal with the stresses of looking after young children.
I hope that during 2007, society as a whole realises the importance of ensuring all children are loved, valued and able to fulfil their potential.
Children, especially when very young, need adults to fight their corner.
They turn to us for support, love and encouragement, and we must foster and nurture this.
To be awarded a DBE is a huge honour. I look forward to working with all our partners to make 2007 a great year for children and young people.
