I am qualified youth worker, with over 25 years’ experience in the field. I have worked in both the statutory and voluntary sectors, in a range of settings and communities. This has given me an in-depth insight into the creativity and resilience of the youth work sector and young people. I still facilitate several of our youth voice groups and work as a youth worker. 

I have worked in the VCSE sector now for nearly 15 years and being a charity volunteer for much longer. My background spans both service delivery and organisation strategy and business development. Including fundraising / income generation, business planning, MEL, safeguarding, health & safety, and quality standards. I’m rather partial to spreadsheets, a good book and baking the odd cake or two.

Others think I’m a bit too enthusiastic, I think that’s what it takes to work with young people, energy and enthusiasm. I studied Sociology and social policy at University, I started by volunteering at a young age, charity shops, youth centres, church, nursing homes. I supported young people in secondary school working in the SEND department, moving onto manage the English as Additional Language department. After a couple more roles in schools I made the move to a youth voice worker and not looked back. 

I am a Northern Irish chatterbox passionate about making sure young people feel supported, heard and valued.
I studied Psychology with Child Development before completing a Youth Social Action apprenticeship. My background spanning from formal education to detached youth work, has helped me develop strong skills in engaging and building relationships with young people from all walks of life.
In my downtime, you’ll probably find me out walking with dogs, coffee in hand!