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We dedicate this page in memory and to thank Marlene Heron for her many years of unrelenting commitment as our Carers Champion.
Words from SCC's Paula and Julia
Marlene Heron, a beloved figure in the Sutton community, whose life was marked by unwavering dedication to social justice, inclusivity, and community empowerment.
Marlene was more than a community leader; she was a champion for the marginalised, the vulnerable, and the working-class families of Sutton. Her advocacy extended far beyond her official roles, as she consistently worked to ensure that every voice, regardless of background or circumstance, was heard and valued. Through her efforts, Marlene inspired countless individuals to believe in themselves, to speak up for their rights, and to take an active role in shaping their community.
Known for her approachable demeanor and genuine interest in people, Marlene had an extraordinary ability to connect with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. From young children to seniors, she engaged with warmth, understanding, and compassion. She tirelessly encouraged people from diverse backgrounds to come together, fostering a strong sense of community in Sutton.
Words from Marlene's daughter, Lea Heron
Of all the groups and associations mum had been involved with over the years, I think Sutton Carers, particularly Young Carers, was the one she held closest to her heart. She was passionate about her role as an advocate and spoke to me often about the people she worked with (no names, of course!).
From the age of 20, with a 2 year old and 8 months pregnant with her second child, mum cared for her own mum and 1 year old brother Martin, who had severe learning disabilities, and supported her teenage twin siblings, after their adored dad died suddenly. Her support continued throughout the next 40 years until her mum had to go into a care home and Martin went to live with her sister. Then for the next 20 years, she helped her sister with respite and care of her darling Martin.
All of this was conducted in addition to bringing up her own children, working and being heavily involved in every kind of community project you could shake a stick at! Immensely proud, me not her (pride wasn't a trait she indulged in herself) is an understatement!
Her own experiences gave her a deep rooted insight into exactly what Carers do, day in day out, often without the benefit of extra financial and family support. Mum felt hugely fortunate that she had never had to carry these responsibilities entirely on her own. I think that sharing your experiences helped her to keep going when the going got tough. She loved you all.
So, to YOU. Mum was in AWE of each and every one of you, particularly the young 'uns. Your tireless, selfless endeavors to ensure those you care for live the fullest, healthiest life possible; the constant physical, emotional and mental strength you have; your resilience when it must sometimes feel that everything is against you; balancing all of this with giving time to other dependants/siblings/school/work/relationships. You inspired, astonished and amazed her daily. Unsurprisingly, then, her passion to be involved and use her knowledge and skills to support you grew and grew.
Whether you know it or not, your stories have helped other unsung heroes, such as yourselves. I work in a primary school. Through what I learned about the incredible challenges you face daily from mum, I have been able to identify some of our Young Carers at school. This has enabled the adults to provide practical and emotional support and understanding to them and their families. This is part of your legacy.
You see, all Carers are made of very special stuff - you do what you do, never making a fuss or acknowledging that what you do is in any way extraordinary. You often don't mention why you're falling asleep at your desk, not doing your homework, forgotten your P.E kit, your school uniform is incomplete, you are wearing the wrong shoes, you've not had a letter signed or paid for a school trip. The list goes on and on. And so does the impact of caring for your loved ones, not because of duty, because of LOVE.
Angels do exist, they just don't have wings. They do wear school uniform, overalls, tabards, suits and leggings. They are extraordinary ordinary people. They are you.
We have lots of amazing memories of Marlene over her many years of tireless support. We will miss you Marlene. You were one of a kind!
Full nomination for a Lifetime Achievement Award 2023
by Julia Kerr, SCC Young Carers Service Manager
I would like to nominate former Councillor Marlene Heron for the Lifetime Achievement Award. I have seen Marlene in various different roles, supporting and championing ordinary and vulnerable people from at least 2002.
I first meet Marlene in about 2002, if not earlier, when I lived on the notorious estate, Durand Close. I had moved from Lambeth and knew no-one. I had 4 young children, hated where I had been moved to, and was feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Marlene knocked on my door one day and asked if I knew that we had a new residents association being formed. I invited her in for a cuppa and that was my true introduction to engaging with my new community. Marlene explained that most people on the estate wanted better for their families and by hiding away, things would never change. She encouraged me to go to the next meeting, arranging to meet and walk with us. After that, there was no turning back. I found friends, great neighbours and people who really wanted to make a difference. Through Marlene, I found a sense of confidence and learnt new skills that I never thought I would have the opportunity to.
Marlene in her role supported us in getting a community centre built, ensuring that we received training and information to support us in our various roles. When other people were saying that they were scared to come onto the estate, not only did Marlene come onto the estate but knocked on doors, built trusting relationships with many of us residents and could often be heard telling other people from outside of our community, to come down, get to know us and find out what true community looked like. Marlene helped us to be proud of where we came from and not to be ashamed. I have fond memories of Fun Days at Durand; bbq’s and Marlene rolling up her sleeves and serving up hotdogs and burgers.
Marlene has always been proactive in not only giving ordinary working class people a voice but also giving them the tools, knowledge and inspiration to do more for themselves. Marlene encouraged residents to have more say about what would happen in their own lives and to our estate. During the Durand Close regeneration, she encouraged us to take ownership of the regeneration and to be involved in the planning for the new development in 2006.
I once made the mistake of telling Marlene that no-one would listen to me as I was just a working class mum, and she roared at me – you are not JUST, yes working class, but never JUST. You are a parent, you know what your children need, now fight for it.
In later years Marlene became the Carers Champion in Sutton, being at many events, taking on complex caseloads around housing, talking and engaging with unpaid Carers and championing their cause, often highlighting the disparity between people with caring roles and those that did not. Marlene retired in 2022, but is often seen out and about at events, always smiling and engaging with everyone, from small children, surly teens, harassed parents and older people. Marlene has a way that allows her to connect to anybody.
She really is incredible, a person that you might be lucky enough to come across once in a lifetime. She instils skills, knowledge and confidence in everyone she meets and has given a lifetime of support to residents in the London Borough of Sutton.
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