Kay Marriott JP has been appointed as the new High Sheriff for the Isle of Wight.
Kay is Island-born and following her education at Cowes High School, commenced her nurse training in 1976.
Highly respected in her profession, she has a BSc (Hons) in Clinical Practice. Kay led the GUM (Genital, Urinary Medicine) department to be one of the first in the country to become an award-winning, integrated sexual health service.
Kay’s management and leadership experience enabled her to take up further roles on the Island such as Head of Nursing and Clinical Director for the then, Community Directorate.
During her career Kay enhanced her management and leadership skills, undertaking management programmes through her NHS role and Reading University. She also supported Portsmouth University Nurse Education recruitment and was a NVQ Assessor. These ‘transferrable’ leadership and management skills were also employed as a Company Secretary for Marriott Design, working with her husband, Brian, where she gained extensive business and marketing experience.
After 45 years in the NHS, pre-COVID, Kay had planned to retire in March 2020 however, since then she has been involved in numerous COVID related programmes, most recently the St Mary’s Hospital vaccination hub.
Kay lives in Cowes with her husband Brian, has 2 daughters, a stepson and daughter and 5 grandchildren. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, an active member of the Isle of Wight Cantata Choir, a volunteer for Northwood House and her hobbies include keeping fit and reading.
Speaking about her appointment, Kay has said:
“I feel extremely humbled and privileged to have been chosen to be the Island’s High Sheriff for the forthcoming year and I promise to raise awareness to this important ceremonial role in our community, continuing the High Sheriff’s role in crime prevention, whilst equally, I will be doing all I can to raise the profile of organisations which support my theme within the community.
“Having volunteered as a Magistrate over the last three years and one of the original ‘Island Youth Offending Panel’ members, I am mindful that some of those repeat offenders we see in court, entered the judicial system at a young age. Organisations that support young people to aspire to make better lifestyle choices are so important.
“Therefore, my theme Inspire to Aspire aims to highlight the work of people and organisations who dedicate their time to supporting young people at risk, and to inspire others to play a part. However, it is not just about young people, I know personally I have been inspired to improve myself, taken paths that have enhanced my career and my personal life and I hope, has had a positive impact on those around me.
“The role one person can have in changing the course of our lives cannot be underestimated.
“We can all be positive role models, give our time volunteering or acknowledging others and make a difference to the island community in some way, to make it a better place to live and enjoy.”
Kay will be promoting the High Sheriff’s Trust, a fund that has supported over 200 Island charities, groups and individuals on the Island. Donations to the High Sheriff’s Trust are distributed to worthy causes, those who make a difference to the island community in some way, that make it a better place to live and enjoy. Details on how to donate can be found at www.highsheriffiow.co.uk.
Mrs Janet Hallam has been appointed as Kay’s Chaplain and Mrs April Newton as her Under Sheriff.
Brilliant appointment !!! Kay Marriott is a Star !!
A classy & worthwhile member of this Island community
Yes….?
I wouldn’t say no.
Good choice Good Luck to her !!