Having personal experience of childhood anxiety has shaped my life and my career, giving me insight into some of the challenges faced by children and families. It’s also shown me the importance of resilience, the cornerstone of all our work at Family Compass.
I’ve moved gradually south during my life: born in Bradford, I did my psychology degree in Manchester and spent several years working in IT in the Midlands, changing career direction to become an assistant psychologist with North Warwickshire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in 2002.
Moving to Devon in 2003, I have worked with children and families in many different roles within the local authority and voluntary sector. My skillset has changed and grown over the years, from coding and data analysis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Narrative Therapy, to leadership and management.
Co-founding Family Compass in 2017 is the most challenging and rewarding thing I’ve ever done. Every day is different, and needs to be met with creativity and flexibility, adapting to change and negotiating the numerous barriers and obstacles we meet. I believe wholeheartedly in the power of early intervention, and love working with our amazing team to create accessible services for our community.
When not working, you’ll find me on the beach with my greyhounds, being exasperated with my teenage boys or cooking a family dinner.