Scotland: Janet M Bishop, FSGRA, AGRA, FSA Scot

Janet Bishop has been a professional genealogist for 20 years. Now based at Westbridge Mill, Bridge Street, Kirkcaldy, Fife, KY1 1TE, her research service covers genealogical research of all kinds, in Scotland, England and Wales.

In the last 20 years, Janet has developed a particular expertise in research relevant to the legal and insurance industries.  Professional Indemnity Insurance is held.

Educated in Kirkcaldy and Aberdeen, and having previously lived in the North East of Scotland for many years, Janet has a particular interest in and knowledge of the counties of Moray, Banff, Nairn and Fife, but she is equally qualified to research all other areas, and works full-time, researching daily in central Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city, where her own familial roots lie.  A direct descendant of famous Scots fiddler Niel Gow, the discovery of this fact marked the beginning of her interest in genealogy and an eventual change of career and geographical location.

A member of ASGRA (the Association of Scottish Genealogists & Researchers in Archives), Janet is a Fellow and current Chairman of the association.  ASGRA is the only accrediting professional association of genealogists in Scotland, and members adhere to a strict code of practice, assuring the client of a high standard of expertise and professionalism. ASGRA was formed in 1981, with the aim of upholding high professional research standards throughout the UK, but especially in Scotland. 

Genealogical research can also be undertaken if part of an ancestry study moves into England & Wales, by way of GenealogyUK www.genealogyuk.net which Janet runs in partnership with colleague Ian Marson, an equally-experienced and accredited genealogist and probate researcher, based in Yorkshire.

Janet is also a former Council member of AGRA (the Association of Genealogist & Researchers in Archives), the equivalent association of ASGRA, based in England.  

Outside of work, Janet takes an active part in all matters pertaining to the study of genealogy, family and local history, and is a regular contributor of articles to family history publications.  She is also the current Chairman of SAFHS - the Scottish Association of Family History Societies.