‘A big character with an even bigger heart’
A LIFELONG LGBT+ activist and respected social worker has been remembered as the voice of children in need of help.
Tribute has been paid to awardwinning volunteer Bob Woods after his death on September 20 following a battle with cancer.
Recognised in the Pinc List 2019, celebrating the most influential LGBT+ figures in Wales, Bob was a respected children’s social worker with Barnardo’s.
He also fostered through the Albert Kennedy Trust – a voluntary organisation helping lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender young people facing homelessness.
Alongside fostering, Bob played a key voluntary role at St Teilo’s Church in Wales School in Llanedeyrn, Cardiff, promoting respect for difference.
Through his tireless work, he helped young people gain the confidence to be frank about their sexuality in public and among friends and family.
Thanks to his support for the Just a Game? campaign, he also contributed to breaking down homophobic behaviour in sport.
This \year, Bob was awarded the Lily Summers Prize by Welsh Labour in recognition of his lifelong dedication to LGBT+ causes.
A stalwart of the Labour Party, he will be remembered for his work as secretary of the Barnardo’s branch of Unison, and as a “fierce Remainer”.
Most of all, Bob will also be sorely missed as a proud father to his adopted daughter Adele.
Remembering Bob, Pride Cymru said: “A lifelong LGBT+ activist, children’s social worker and campaigner, Bob made a difference to so many lives.
“We were chuffed that Bob was able to make it to what was his final Pride Cymru parade and Big Weekend. He certainly brightened up everyone’s weekend with his rainbow wheelchair.
“What Bob achieved for LGBT+ people is immeasurable. Bob was supportive of everyone and one of the kindest, funniest and most lovely people you could ever wish to meet. If there’s one thing we can do in his memory, it’s carry on the fight for a more fair and equal world.”
Sarah Crawley, director of Barnardo’s Cymru, said: “Bob was dedicated to Barnardo’s, particularly raising the voice of children and young people from marginalised communities including the LGBT+ community. He was a fantastic advocate for them and will be much missed. He was known for his great sense of humour and energy and continued to be involved with Unison in retirement.”
Louise Phelan, admin manager and Unison Barnardo’s branch convenor for Wales, said: “I’ll remember him most for his wicked sense of humour and his sense of justice and fair play.”
Unison Barnardo’s branch secretary Karen Rickards said: “During his retirement he was still immensely active, working voluntarily with a number of national organisations and he inspired many people to become active with his endless enthusiasm. He was a big character, with an even bigger heart”.
Bob’s funeral service will be held at 11am on Tuesday, October 8, at Wenallt Chapel, Thornhill Crematorium. All are requested to wear Bob’s favourite colours – blue or pink, or black tie for men.