During that time, I worked with many young people whose lives had taken difficult paths, and it reinforced my belief that early intervention, positive role models and recognising individual strengths can make a lasting difference.

This experience inspired me to pursue a career in social work, qualifying in 2007. Since then, I have worked predominantly in fostering, beginning as a Supervising Social Worker in 2008. Throughout my career I have completed Form F and kinship assessments, facilitated training programmes including Skills to Foster, supported foster carers, and spent seven years working within fostering placements. More recently, I moved into management within an Independent Fostering Agency, where I continue to focus on creating high-quality services that help children, young people and foster families thrive.

What I enjoy most about fostering is seeing the difference that caring, committed adults can make in a young person’s life. I firmly believe that every child has talents, strengths, and potential, and that with the right support they can achieve far more than they may initially believe possible.

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, walking and spending time along the beautiful Northumberland coastline, particularly exploring sections of the coastal path. I’m also a lifelong music fan—especially of The Beatles—and recently enjoyed a trip to Liverpool to visit some of the city’s iconic musical landmarks.