What skills, knowledge or experience would you bring to this role?

I have been a leader in early years for 30 years, in a number of roles and capacities, including leading Sure Start programmes/Children's Centres, Ofsted inspector, Consultant and managing/coordinating services. As CEO of Foundation Years Trust, I am a key partner of the Early Help Alliance. Our organisation also works closely with schools, day care setting and a wide range of community groups who offer services for families. Therefore, I believe I also have access to knowledge and skills outside of my personal experience. I have a sound understanding of government policy and the general direction of travel expected of society for children and young people. I am also constantly updating my knowledge of child development and how this is impacted by policies and practices. Whilst I'm strongest in my knowledge and understanding of the earliest years, my work alongside schools and youth services gives me a broader understanding of the needs of older children too.

Why do you want this role?

The whole of my adult life I've been about improving outcomes for children, whether that be on an individual basis or working to achieve this across a cohort or community. I am politically aware and fully understand the constraints that the public and private sector are working under, and am keen to help find solutions that promote wellbeing, learning and positive development for our children and young people. Taking a seat at this board will be a natural progression for me, in working together with other colleagues to ensure Wirral communities have the best opportunities to support children and young people, from conception onwards.

Is there anything else you think is important for people to know about you?

I passionately believe in collaboration, and particularly in the cheesy but relevant phrase 'it takes a village to raise a child'. This highlights the fact that parents can't do it alone, nor can one service. Children need well-connected and fully informed adults to be in their corner in order to thrive and reach their potential. We have to work together.

What skills, knowledge or experience would you bring to this role?

I was a Paediatric nurse, Advanced diploma in Childcare and education, BA(Hons) in professional studies in education - SEND research), Masters by Research - exploring the communication methods used by Allied Health Professionals, with parents of children under 5 with disabilities. Shorter courses - SEND Mediation, Designated Safeguarding lead.

My working experience is varied, working in the statutory sector (Health, Education and Social care), many years of working in the voluntary sector. During the time of regular EYDCP, I was an active member, ensuring that the voice of parents of young children were communicated. Since then, I have held roles such as Staff development and training officer for social care, CEO of the Wirral SEN Parent Partnership, CEO of a children's disability charity, and for the last 6 years as CEO for WMO, I have overall responsibility for our nursery, the manager reports to me. I support staff working with Asylum Seekers , refugees and migrants, and work closely with social care, resettlement team and a host of other organisations. I think that WMO is well placed to represent the VCSE, as we are known for forging partnership working. Our menu of services has aided our partnership working, knowledge of other services, will be helpful, to represent the VCSE, at the CYP & Families Partnership Board.

Why do you want this role?

I feel strongly in playing a small part in working towards all children, young people and their families have the support to shine and have their basic needs met. Working for a charity supporting Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Migrants, it has highlighted the needs of these communities, and it is important that their needs are not forgotten. I want to ensure that wherever possible, partnership working with other organisations and statutory colleagues, the issues faced by families of Ethnic Minority Backgrounds, become firmly embedded at organisational, as well as strategic level.

Is there anything else you think is important for people to know about you?

Apart from attending short courses, I keep up to date with national strategies, and how these are responded to in local strategies. I have a sound knowledge of the views and strategies from some of the European countries, which I feel are helping me to be able to fully participate at strategic meetings. WMO always support in surveys and research to ensure that the needs and voices are heard from people seldom heard and served.

What skills, knowledge or experience would you bring to this role?

I am an experienced and dedicated CEO with a strong background in the third sector, I am able to lead organizations strategically while staying true to their values and vision and focusing on supporting children and young people.

As CEO of The Hive Wirral Youth Zone, I lead an organisation that supports 2,800 young people each year, ensuring we deliver on our strategic goals and uphold our core principle of young people first. I oversee diverse teams across fundraising, corporate services, and youth work, always striving for the best for young people and placing them at the heart of the organisation. My earlier roles include leading Petty Pool as CEO, where I drove significant growth while delivering education with a focus on independence and employability for young people with learning disabilities.

Why do you want this role?

I am deeply committed to supporting young people and communities, and my career reflects a passion for creating opportunities that empower others. I believe in the power of collaboration and innovation to achieve lasting impact for children and young people.