Councillor Barbara Down
Barbara is a ward Councillor for Kingston Park and Dinnington in Newcastle. She was appointed as an Observer to International Newcastle’s Board on 27th May 2026.
Barbara is a trained nurse who worked for several years at the Freeman Hospital. Her career has always been centred on helping people and listening to their concerns.
Alongside her professional work, Barbara has volunteered throughout her adult life with an international charity dedicated to building trust and overcoming divisions between people and communities. She later worked for the organisation as Head of Human Resources, gaining valuable experience in leadership, problem-solving and supporting others.
Barbara believes that good local representation begins with listening.