Sue Wright, a passionate advocate for fostering and adoption, passed away at the age of 57, leaving behind a profound impact on the lives she touched. Her journey from a challenging upbringing to a successful career as a barrister and businesswoman exemplifies her unwavering commitment to standing up for those without a voice.
A Difficult Beginning
Born in Liverpool, Sue’s early life was fraught with difficulties. The daughter of Ann, a council worker, and John Sherman, who worked in logistics, her childhood was not what one would hope for. At the age of 16, she entered foster care, but the arrangement proved unsatisfactory, leading her to a Salvation Army-run establishment by 17. Living on a meagre £40 a week with a flatmate, Sue’s resilience began to shine through.
During this period, she found part-time work in a nursing home in Southport, where the owner, Mrs Smythe, embraced her with open arms, famously stating, “There’s always more room at the table.” This sentiment resonated deeply with Sue and would later become the cornerstone of her advocacy work, inspiring her speeches at various conferences and corporate events aimed at raising awareness about the urgent need for more foster carers and adoptive parents.
A Determined Path to the Bar
Despite leaving school without qualifications, Sue was determined to pursue a career in law. She dedicated herself to evening classes and managed to secure O-levels while working for Mrs Smythe. Her hard work culminated in a BTec in business studies and finance, followed by a law degree from Preston Polytechnic (now the University of Central Lancashire) in the late 1980s.
In the early 90s, Sue moved to London, where she balanced her studies for the bar exams with a job at Lehman Brothers—a role that ironically led her colleagues to assume she was training in beauty therapy rather than law.
A Champion for Children and Families
Returning to Merseyside in the late 90s, Sue began fostering for Liverpool City Council, caring for a total of seven children over 16 years. Simultaneously, she built a reputable career as a child protection barrister, known for her passionate advocacy and legal expertise. In 2021, Sue founded the Harrogate Group, a property finance and advisory company, further showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
Her dedication to helping others extended beyond her legal work. Sue was also a fervent supporter of animal rescue charities, notably contributing to the Manchester Dogs Home, where her efforts helped raise £2.2 million to rebuild the facility after an arson attack in 2014.
Just months before her death from cancer, Sue was honoured at the 2025 Women of the Year awards, receiving a commendation for her outstanding contributions to children and families. She was a vocal advocate for routine annual blood tests on the NHS, a measure she believed could have led to an earlier diagnosis of her illness and potentially saved her life.
Remembering Sue’s Legacy
Sue is survived by her partner, Faisal Arif, her daughter Sonia from her previous marriage to footballer Mark Wright, and her other children, Ruth, Keira, Cory, and Miley. She also leaves behind her granddaughter, Delilah, and her sister, Hannah.
Sue Wright’s life was a testament to resilience, compassion, and advocacy. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who strive to support vulnerable children and families in need.
Why it Matters
Sue Wright’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many in the fostering and adoption system. Her relentless advocacy not only raised awareness but also highlighted the importance of community support in transforming lives. By championing for better resources and recognition for foster carers, Sue has paved the way for future generations to continue her mission, ensuring that every child has the chance to be heard, loved, and nurtured.
