My Approach and Ethos

Having spent my formative years in the voluntary sector very much embedded in peer support and helpline work, my approach and ethos is founded on the key principles underpinning this type of work, namely:

• offering active listening with compassion and no judgement;
• placing a high value on the power of solidarity and validation;
• being brave, bold and curious in the face of challenges;
• believing in the power of human potential – and holding this for people when they can’t see it in themselves and;
• believing in the power of human connection and relationships to make all of these things possible.

I aim to be reflective and responsive and believe that flexibility and not being tied to standard ways of working is key to inclusivity and especially in the leadership of small organisations. The wisdom is that small is nimble, but that also offers great opportunities to be innovative.

As someone who has personal experience of long-term mental and physical health issues, I am passionate about the development of lived experience leadership and reshaping work environments and practices.

In all of my work, I aim to meet people where they are, focusing on what matters to them and why, to try to get to the heart of the challenge, dilemma or decision they are facing.

I believe there is no one or ‘right’ approach and support and success will look different to each person, team and organisation and that everyone is doing the best with what they have right now.