I am a freelance writer, editor and tutor based in London, UK, working in a range of differents areas.
Background
After gaining a first class honours degree in education in 1996 and a further qualification in counselling skills, I went on to work in a variety of roles in the health and social welfare sector. My career has spanned telephone counselling and advice services, community care support work, parenting support and information services. I ran a national sexual health helpline for young people for several years and am currently deputy editor of Disability, Pregnancy and Parenthood International (DPPI) journal.
My way into writing creatively was to study for an MA Creative Writing at MMU, for which I wrote my debut novel, Marilyn and Me, and received a distinction in 2006. Narrated by a young woman with a learning disability, the novel draws on my experiences working in community care. I am interested in the power of story and the links between creativity and wellbeing.
Publications
I am published in a range of forms including creative writing (novels, short stories and poetry), non-fiction (parenting books), journal articles and interviews, educational resources and booklets for charities. I am open to diverse commissions across the spectrum.
My debut novel, Marilyn and Me, shortlisted for the Cinnamon Press First Novel Award, was published by Cinnamon in 2007, launched at the Redbridge Book and Media Festival, and serialised in The Western Mail in 2008. My first young adult novel, Give Me a Sign (Flame Books, 2008), exploring deafness, was selected as Exclusively Independent Pick of The Month in December 2008.
My poems and stories have been accepted for publication in various print and online presses. Successes include a story shortlisted for The Bridport Prize 2009 and a winning entry in the Tonto Even more Short Stories competition 2009. I am currently a staff writer for The View From Here literary magazine.
I also write mainstream parenting guides for Need2Know Books - The Terrible Twos: A Parent’s Guide and Baby’s First Year: A Parent’s Guide are out now.
Teaching
I currently teach adults on both creative writing and health and social care courses with The Open University. I also teach primary school children via Fleet Tutors and have an enhanced CRB disclosure. I am available to teach and run workshops with children and adults.
Professional memberships
I am a full member of The Society of Authors, National Association of Writers in Education and The Society of Women Writers and Journalists.
Contact
I always like to hear from people who have visited my website, read my books, or just want to chat! If you’d like to get in touch, please email me.