Susan was born in York and bought up in Great Yarmouth in Norfolk. She qualified as a nurse and went onto to work in health services research. She joined Bucks New University in 2012 and has lived in Amersham for 10 years. Although now retired she still teaches health care professionals at the University. She is a life-long supporter of the Labour Party and since retirement has become more involved in supporting the Labour Party locally. She was appointed Secretary of the Chesham and Amersham CLP in 2020.