Alison served for 30 years as a police officer, working closely within the local community.
Through this role, she regularly came into contact with individuals and families facing significant challenges.
At an early stage, she was often able to identify their needs and signpost them to appropriate counselling and support services, particularly through the Aisling Centre, alongside support from other statutory agencies.
During her policing career Alison was a strong advocate for the Youth Justice Scheme and was involved in the development of Restorative Justice in County Fermanagh, working in partnership with the Youth Justice Agency.
She was one of the first facilitators of the programme in Northern Ireland, helping to guide and support young people towards more positive futures while also restoring hope for victims of crime.
Alison’s interest in mental health and wellbeing developed further, at a time when seeking help was difficult and mental health remained a taboo subject, Alison identified very strongly with ethos of the Aisling Centre ‘ Hope Healing and Growth’ and became a board member over 25 years ago, helping to shape and strengthen vital services within the community.
In 2019, during her time as Chairperson, the centre was very privileged to be awarded the Queens Award for Voluntary Service.
Alison stepped down as chairperson last October to make way for new leadership, and is delighted to continue her involvement as a member of the Aisling Centre fundraising committee.
In addition to her long-standing commitment to the Aisling Centre, Alison has also served as a former board member of Nexus NI (supporting victims of sexual abuse) during its time based in Fermanagh, as well as Home-Start Enniskillen, supporting families and individuals at critical points in their lives.
Beyond County Fermanagh, Alison has also been involved in charitable work.
In 2016, along with a team from her church, she spent a fortnight at the Operation Rescue Centre in Mekelle, Ethiopia.
During this time, the team developed and delivered programmes for young people, including arts, crafts, sports, and other activities.
Reflecting on the experience, Alison said: “It was a very humbling and rewarding experience, and I have memories I will carry with me for life. I believe every young person should have the opportunity to visit a third-world country at some stage in their life.”
Alison was recently shortlisted for Co. Fermanagh Community Charity Champion of the year 2025.
Married to Gordon and a proud mother of one daughter, Alison feels especially blessed to now have two very young grandchildren, who keep her happily busy. She is always willing to lend a hand at local events – particularly when she can put her well-known baking and cooking skills to good use.
Speaking about her appointment, Alison said: “I feel very honoured and humbled to be appointed to this role and hope to serve the community of Fermanagh well. Following in the footsteps of David Donaldson, High Sheriff for 2025, who did a sterling job, I am excited for the year ahead.”
Her appointment as High Sheriff reflects her lifelong commitment to service, compassion, and community leadership across County Fermanagh
David Donaldson MBE has warmly welcomed the appointment extending his very best wishes as she begins her year in office.
Reflecting on his own tenure throughout 2025, Mr. Donaldson described the role as “a great honour and privilege,” noting that the office of High Sheriff is the oldest continuous secular role in the United Kingdom, with roots tracing back more than a thousand years.
In Ireland, the role has been officially recorded as far back as 1326, making it a position steeped in legal and civic tradition.
The High Sheriff serves as HM The King’s representative for matters relating to the judiciary and the maintenance of law and order at the county level.
While largely ceremonial today, the position retains deep historical significance and offers a unique opportunity to engage with and support the community.
“Throughout the year, I’ve been honoured to attend a wide range of events—from solemn civic ceremonies to joyous community celebrations,” Mr. Donaldson said.
“It was a particular pleasure to attend the presentation of a King’s Award for Voluntary Service to Fermanagh Bright Starz, and to represent the office at a Ramadan celebration hosted by the Aman Association of Fermanagh – a powerful reminder of the rich diversity and unity within our community.”
Mr. Donaldson also used his time in office to actively support charitable causes, including The Samaritans and The Make-A-Wish Foundation.
“Attending ceremonial events such as the 21-gun Royal Salute at Hillsborough Castle, the garden parties at Buckingham Palace and Hillsborough, and even being invited to the American Consulate’s 4th July celebration were real privileges,” he said.
“But the most meaningful personal highlight for me was being able to present £13,500 to Action Cancer and Crohn’s & Colitis UK following my participation in a fundraising trek through Kenya – an unforgettable experience that combined personal challenge with lasting impact.”
One lasting legacy from Mr. Donaldson’s year in office is the creation of a dedicated Badge of Office for the High Sheriff of Fermanagh.
“Since the official uniform for High Sheriffs was abolished in the mid-20th century, many counties in Northern Ireland have lacked a formal badge,” he explained.
“In fact, previous High Sheriffs of Fermanagh had no alternative but to use English or Welsh insignia on wreaths etc. I was delighted to work with the High Sheriffs’ Association of Northern Ireland to help design and procure a suitable emblem, and it has been my great honour to personally commission and donate a bespoke Badge of Office for use by future High Sheriffs of County Fermanagh.”
Mr. Donaldson concluded by offering his support to Mrs. Annan: “I wish Alison every success and enjoyment in her year ahead. It is a role unlike any other, and I know she will bring warmth, integrity and dedication to it. If I can be of any assistance during her term, I’ll be glad to help in any way I can.”