My journey of supporting children and young people began over 24 years ago when I qualified as an ice skating coach. During this time, I worked with children and adults of all ages and abilities, from complete beginners through to skaters competing at British Championship level. This experience taught me the importance of patience, encouragement, confidence-building and understanding the unique needs of every individual.

After becoming a parent to my three children, now aged 16, 13 and 10, I developed a deeper understanding of the emotional challenges children and families can face throughout their lives.

I later moved into education, working within a school setting as a Classroom Assistant before progressing to one-to-one and small-group support roles. Alongside helping children access learning and achieve their academic potential, I became increasingly involved in supporting their emotional wellbeing, helping them navigate worries, build confidence and develop emotional resilience.

My passion for supporting children’s emotional health led me to train as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA), providing targeted emotional support to children and young people facing a range of challenges. Through this work, I saw first-hand the difference that being listened to, understood and supported can make.

Today, through Listening Space, I provide a safe, nurturing and therapeutic environment where children and young people can explore their feelings, develop emotional literacy, build resilience and feel heard. My aim is to support every child as an individual, helping them better understand themselves and navigate life’s challenges with confidence.