Compass Be (Barnsley Mental Health Support Team)

Hi, I’m Vick and I am delighted to be the Service Manager for Compass Be Mental Health Support Team and Compass Rise Wakefield.

I recently completed a Post Graduate Certificate with Northumbria University, Transformational Leadership in Children and Young People’s Mental Health, and have a background in Public Sector leadership. I have worked for the past 14 years in local government within the Early Help and Prevention Service, and have led the Supporting Families Programme, the Early Help Front Door and the Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing Service.

I am passionate about improving access to emotional and mental health support for all, ensuring children and young people can access the right support at the right time. Barnsley is a fantastic skill mix early intervention and prevention team which means we have a diverse range of support on offer to meet the differing needs of children and young people.

I am a mum of 2 girls who generally keep my busy. When I am not at work I love to be outdoors, and you will often find me hacking out with my daughter and her pony. I also love walking with my 3 dogs and taking them to a nearby beach.

I’m Evalynne. I’m the Clinical Operations Manager here in Barnsley and covering Compass Wakefield. My role is to support practitioners and provide case and clinical supervision, while supporting the development of excellent, high-quality practice across the service.

I’ve worked with children and young people for over 35 years in special needs education, youth and community work, children’s workforce development and training, residential care, family coaching & Early Help management and I am a private therapist who works predominantly with Neurodivergent children and young adults. I also provide training and supervision to private therapists who want to develop their knowledge and practice with Neurodivergent children & young adults and I love my work! I am passionate about good outcomes for children’s mental health and emotional wellbeing - and believe in positive psychology, solution focused practice and growth mindset. It’s wonderful to work for Compass with a large team of equally passionate people!

Hello, I’m Kim and I am a Mental Health Practitioner for Compass Be. I am a paediatric nurse and I have worked with children and families for over 20 years. I have several years of experience and a very keen interest in mental health and emotional wellbeing. I am very passionate about prevention and management of children and young people and their families with mental health difficulties.
My favourite things to do are spending time with my family, escape rooms and a most recent interest is watching women’s football.

My favourite things to do are spending time with my family, escape rooms and a most recent interest is watching women’s football.

Hi! I’m Louise and I’m the Team Leader for Compass Be.
I’m a Mental Health Nurse and have been working with young people and schools for 7 years.
I think making sure young people get the right help when and how they need it is so important and I love that I get to do this for my job every day.
Outside of work my favourite thing is to spend time with my family and my many pets. I also love to read fiction and fantasy and I’m not against a good Netflix binge!

Click here to watch Louise's video https://tinyurl.com/muh2z7nt

Hello I am Michelle, Team Leader for the Specialist Services at Compass Be. My background is in Integrative Therapy supporting CYP and adults that’s have experienced multiple traumas including which impacted on the mental health . The past 10 years I have worked within charity settings, all with one aim to help improve children, young people and adults mental health and emotional wellbeing. My passion is to support children and young people in the local area to access early intervention ensuring that CYP and adults have access to the right support at the right time.
In my spare time I enjoy been with family and out in the great outdoors whether this be pottering in my garden or walking in the country side .

Click here to watch Michelle's video https://tinyurl.com/2p8tsaj4

Hi! My name is Laura Angel, I work as Team Leader at Compass Be. Previously I worked as a registered manager in adult learning disability services across South Yorkshire. My experience is in operational management, helping to deliver the best service possible, responding to feedback and supporting business development. I love that I can bring my experiences to Compass Be and help to grow our team and improve the mental health support across Barnsley.

My passion is supporting people to achieve their potential, and through working with our colleagues at Compass Be to do just that, we are able to provide a great experience for people who access our services.

Outside of work, I balance a busy family life, love to sing and dance, and go to the theatre.

Hi, I’m Julie! I have worked in Administration for over 20 years in childcare, local authority and private sector roles. I have completed a level 4 in Business and Management and would like continue my studies to complete my degree. I am immensely proud to be able to be part of this incredible service which is going to make such a difference to so many people’s lives.

Outside of work I volunteer as a secretary for a local junior football club, I enjoy being busy venue dressing and event management, but I also love spending time with my family and have a Great Dane who exploring new places with me but also likes to relax while I read do some crafting or enjoy time out at motorsport events.

Click here to watch Julie's video https://tinyurl.com/yptxyh6b

Hi I'm Amy. I have worked as a Legal Secretary within the private sector for 20 years before moving to administration in children's mental health. I am proud to be working in children's mental health and being part of a great team who work hard to help all children in the Barnsley borough.

Outside of work, I have two children and a crazy but cute little dog. I love socialising with my friends, shopping and going out to eat with my family. My favourite time of the week is at the weekend when I get to watch my son play football in both Barnsley District Schoolboys and his Grassroots team.

Hi I’m Talia! I have been working in administration for over 10 years, with experience within the NHS and children’s educational sector. I have completed Level 3 in Business Administration. I am incredibly proud to be working within the service and helping to make a positive difference within young people’s lives.

Outside of work I am a Mum, and have two German Shepherds, I enjoy holidays and exploring on long walks with my family.

Hi I'm Kerry! I have worked in Administration for 20 years, mostly within Local Authority and NHS roles. I am super proud to be part of Compass Be and hope my contribution to the admin team makes a positive difference to many young people and their families.

Outside of work, I spend my time with my teenage children, we all love music and enjoy going to gigs and music events. I enjoy walking our Pug, Tallulah (though not much walking happens on walkies as she likes to flop and sunbathe instead! I don’t blame her, I love the sunshine too!) I’m often in search of somewhere new to explore, I love holidays and sunshine, so I'm usually planning our next trip away.

Hi! I’m Tracy I joined Compass as a Mental Health Practitioner and progressed to become a Supervising Practitioner. I have worked with children and families for over 15 years and have taken part in many training opportunities to develop my practice. I have always been interested in how our minds work and my passion is helping others use strategies and techniques to support their mental health. In my spare time I like to take my cocker spaniel, Millie, for a walk in the local park and woodlands and see my friends and family.

Click here to watch Tracy's video https://tinyurl.com/2p98v4c8

Hello! My name is Olivia, or Liv for short, and I am a Educational Mental Health Practitioner at Compass Be.

I have a degree in Education, Psychology and Counselling, and Developmental Psychology. I have a passion for mental health and supporting young people. I have worked in various roles, from a health care assistant on a busy ward, to a 1-1 teaching assistant in a secondary school.

I am excited to be part of the Compass Be Team to support children and young people’s mental health through early intervention and spreading awareness about emotional wellbeing.

I believe in the importance of celebrating individuality, and I aim to help everybody prioritise their own mental health.

When I am not at Compass, I am reading, listening to music, baking, and exploring. I also love to spend time with my family, friends, and my beautiful cocker spaniel Robyn.

Hi, I’m Shaun. After completing my Degree at Sheffield University I became a Youth Worker in Leeds before becoming a Family Support Worker here in Barnsley, supporting young people and their families with their wellbeing. Recently I undertook a Postgraduate Diploma which has enabled me to join Compass Be as an Educational Mental Health Practitioner and become a supervising practitioner. I am looking forward to supporting children and young people with their mental health. Outside of work I like keeping fit, spending time with family and eating out hence the keep fit bit. I love being outdoors and travelling.

Hi, I'm Lauren! I've always loved working in schools with young people but I knew I loved more than just the education and teaching side as I have a huge passion for helping young people emotionally and supporting their mental wellbeing. I have always been known as the 'agony aunt' in my friendship group because I love helping people, and in my free time I love to be with friends and family, walk my beautiful Cocker Spaniel puppy, cook, go on holidays and go shopping!

Click here to watch Lauren's video https://tinyurl.com/5cfy8dud

Hi, I’m Jade. I completed a Childhood studies degree at the University of Huddersfield before working in a SEMH school in Barnsley for several years, supporting young people in the classroom and with their wellbeing. I have always had a passion for mental health and joining a mental health support team has been the best move I ever made.

Outside of work, I love being outdoors, walking and spending time with family. I also like to make time to journal and meditate and my idea of a perfect self-care evening is watching a good film with a huge cup of tea and plenty of biscuits.

Hi, I’m Andrea. I have worked with children, young people, and families for many years based in schools and working for the Local Authority as a Family Support Worker, I have joined compass be team as a trainee and look forward to training at Sheffield University to gain my qualification to become an Education Mental Health Practitioner. I love working with children and young people and supporting them to be able to meet their potential and thrive to become the best person that they can be. I am passionate about improving mental health and wellbeing in children and young people which is what lead me to working at compass Be.

I am a mum of two, both now young adults and living their best lives but have seen the many challenges they have faced growing up in today’s world. This has also been a drive to me wanting to support other young people with their menta health and wellbeing.

I have 2 French bulldogs called Honey and Peanut (because I love eating honey and peanut butter)
I also enjoy going to the gym several times a week, my workouts consist of a mix or cardio and weights to not only keep me physically fit and healthy but to keep my mind healthy too.

I also love to spend time with my family, going for walks, cinema and playing games…

Hello, my name is Sarah. I have a background in Psychology, and I have previously worked as a Primary School Teacher. I was really excited to hear about the new role of Education Mental Health Practitioner and joined the Leeds Mental Health Support Team as a trainee in 2020. Setting up a new service and attending university during lock-down was a real learning experience and I look forward to using the skills and experience from my work with the Leeds Team to help develop the Barnsley Mental Health Support Team. I am passionate about early intervention mental health services and believe that working with schools to develop a whole school approach to positive mental health is key to reducing mental health stigma.

I am a mum to two teenage boys and I love swimming and our active family holidays. We have a ginger cat called Honey, who is very noisy. She knows exactly what she wants and how to get it!

Click here to watch Sarah's video https://tinyurl.com/ycymfn7a

Hi, I’m Chimene and I’m a Supervising Practitioner at Compass Be and I am passionate about working with and supporting our young people here in Barnsley.

My background is working as a nurse in paediatrics and special care baby unit. I then worked in mainstream, specialist behavioural settings and Pupil Referral Units working with Excluded and Home Educated young people for over 20yrs. I love to shop and be out in the sunshine.

I really enjoy my work, and having a fantastic team around me having everyone committed to making a positive impact on our children and young people’s lives.

Hi! My name is Emily, and I am a Family Practitioner here at Compass Be. My role at Compass is supporting parents & carers with low level emotional and mental health needs that are impacting on their child/young person’s wellbeing.

I have previously worked as a Family Support Worker in Sheffield supporting families with different needs. I have supported families experiencing domestic abuse, alcohol & substance misuse, mental health conditions, children & young people with additional needs and finding the appropriate support for the families I worked with. I love working with adults & children and really listen to what support they would like to receive and deliver this to improve everyone’s mental wellbeing.

I love going for walks with my friends and family & reading. 😊

Hi, my name is Lisa. I am a Family Practitioner here at Compass Be. My role involves supporting parents and carers with low level emotional and mental health needs that maybe impacting on their child/young person’s wellbeing. I also support parent’s carers to understand their child/young person’s SEN needs.

I have a Foundation Degree in Education, a BA Hons Degree in Supporting Young People, Professionals and Families and a Master’s Degree in Developmental Psychology. I also hold Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the British Psychological Society.
My background is in Education with a special interest in SEN. In my previous role, before joining Compass Be, I worked as an HLTA and SEND Triage Manager.

I love working with families and I am passionate about improving access to mental health support for both adults and children so that early intervention can be offered at the right time. I have a keen interest in psychology and neuroscience and how this affects development across the lifespan.

When I am not at work, I love to spend time with my husband and four children. I also love to spend time with my parents, four siblings and their families. Family is very important to me. I like crafting, reading non-fiction and I love the beach! Especially when the sun is shining!

Hi I am Kirsty, Senior Healthy Peer Relationship Practitioner. I love being a part of the Compass Be Team, working together with other professionals to support children and young people in the Barnsley area.

I have previously worked in a SEN settings for over 7 years, with a background in behavioural support, SEN, emotional wellbeing, mental health and family support. I have an interest in child exploitation, online harms, Adverse Childhood Experiences and using a trauma Informed approach.

I love to read, especially researching and understanding about child psychology, but I also love a good fiction book.

In my spare time I like to be outdoors, I like to go for long walks. I have a love for live music!
I really enjoy the work I do and want to make a positive impact.

Click here to watch Kirsty's video https://tinyurl.com/56w46k8v

Hi, I am Vicky the new Healthy Peer Relationship Practitioner ! I am proud to be a part of compass Be and cannot wait to start working with children and young people across Barnsley.

I have spent the last 10 years in a Primary school setting, supporting children both educationally and emotionally.
I specialised in challenging behaviours, SEN, and adverse childhood experiences.

I am interested in neuroscience, particularly the research relating to early development and how social support and positive relationships, can enhance emotional regulation and development in children.

There is a big wide world out there and I love exploring it !!

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and love to have long walks whatever the weather.

Hello, I’m Helen Scouller and I’m the Bereavement Counsellor.
I’ve spent all my career working with children, young people and families. Most recently in a Children’s Hospice: alongside using art and creativity to make memories and work therapeutically both in-House and in the Community, one to one and with families, I led groups to support bereaved youngsters.
I hope to work with everyone who needs our service in a way that means they feel valued and accepted because growing up and experiencing emotional difficulties is tough; I feel privileged to be a part of this inspiring and skilled team.
And…. I like to laugh.

Click here to watch Helens video https://tinyurl.com/57ckkveu

Hi, I’m Amy! I am a bereavement counsellor working within the Specialist Team at Compass Be. I recently qualified as a counsellor, I have volunteered for 2 years with Compass Be, initially as a student then as a qualified counsellor and now a full time member of the team. I worked for a Mental Health Team in Barnsley for 19 years in admin, following my children going to school, I embarked on a change of direction. I have always been passionate about mental health and wellbeing and feel privileged to now being working with children and young people to support them when they need it most.

I enjoy being in the outdoors, I like to swim in open water and if not swimming, walking with my dog and family locally or further afield in the Peak District, Lakes or Dales. My other interests are photography, going to the cinema and I can also crochet!

Hello, my name is Scott and I'm a specialist bereavement counsellor. Ever since I can remember, I've always had an interest in supporting and helping people. I decided in 2020 that it was the right time to take my passion to another level and begin my counselling journey and I've never looked back since! I use an integrated approach, which includes: arts, crafts and fun activities while using a person-centred modality. Just as each and every child is unique, along with their own personal experiences, so is my approach towards that person, always allowing the sessions to go where they need to go and allowing the child to freely express themselves during their own journey through grief. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the Compass Be team and to work alongside some truly exceptional people.

Hi, I’m Lisa. I am new to the Compass Be team, but have worked with children, young people, and families for many years based in Barnsley Family Centres. As a Family Support Worker, I was fortunate enough to achieve a Postgraduate Diploma in ‘Improving Access to Psychological Therapies for Children & Young People’ (CYP IAPT). This diploma totally inspired me to take a leap of faith and apply for a new role as Education Mental Health Practitioner here at Compass Be as I am passionate about supporting children and young people to improve mental health and wellbeing.
I am a mum of two (a teen and a young adult) who wouldn’t mind me sharing that they have had their fair share of struggles growing up and unfortunately there was very little education in schools and settings to promote the importance of mental health and wellbeing. Hence, why I am so happy that I can now play a part in other children and young people’s journey and work together with schools to deliver 1:1 and group interventions to make a positive difference.
In my down time, I love to attend festivals and gigs, keeping up with latest interior design trends and forcing myself to the gym…

Click here to watch Lisa's video https://tinyurl.com/4jc6762p

Hi, I’m Rhiannon and I’m a Specialist Mental Health Practitioner at Compass Be.
My experience is from working with young people in residential settings with Trauma and/or SEN. I’ve also worked for a college where I did lots of group work for young people. More recently, I qualified as a Social Worker and worked in the NHS in children’s mental health.
I love seeing each child’s unique strengths and they inspire me every day. I’m honoured to support children and families in Barnsley.
Outside of work, I enjoy taking my dog on adventures in my camper van, playing video games and watching my favourite comfort movies.

Hi! I’m Paige. I have a background in Psychology, and I have spent the past 4 years working with young people to help support them with their mental health. I really enjoy working with children and young people and I feel very passionate about speaking out about mental health and supporting others with this. Outside of work I enjoy reading, travelling and going to the gym. More often than not you can find me out walking on the weekends with my two fur babies, Ziggy and Winnie.

Hello, I’m Ella I am a Specialist Mental Health Practitioner at Compass Be.

I qualified in learning disability nursing and social work in 2017 and since then I have worked in both the NHS and the charity sector supporting young people with their mental health and wellbeing.

What I love most about my role is the creativity and fun it brings. Each day is unique, and I’m constantly inspired by the incredible young people I meet. It’s such a rewarding experience to see them thrive and grow.

Outside of work, I’m all about live music—whether it’s a gig or a festival, you’ll often find me dancing (badly) and singing the wrong lyrics to my favourite tunes.

'Hi, my name is Lisa, I joined Compass Be in November 2023 as a Wellbeing Practitioner. I have previously worked in schools as a teacher, head teacher and Bridge Manager, working with children and young people from 3 to 16 years of age.

In my spare time I love spending time with family and friends and enjoy walking, reading and travelling.

Hello! My name is Brandon and I’m a Wellbeing Practitioner at Compass Be. I have worked in schools with young people and with additional educational needs for the past 10 years, and it’s something I have always been passionate about. From studying a degree in Early Childhood Studies, to being a 1:1 Teaching Assistant and a SEND Learning Support Mentor, I am a true advocate for creating a safe space for each individual, and for every opportunity to be inclusive, accepting, nurturing and encouraging. Every person and every feeling are unique and valid!

My hobbies include attending concerts, watching films, reading books, going to the gym and listening to music. I enjoy spending time and laughing with my friends, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone when I can.

I thoroughly enjoy working at Compass Be and I am extremely proud and dedicated to providing positive wellbeing sessions to young people throughout Barnsley.

I love meeting new people and working as part of a team to positively impact the lives of young people. I have a psychology degree and my background is working with young people in hospitals, education and residential homes. I love working closely with schools in Barnsley to improve mental health and well-being. My interests are skincare, makeup and all that good stuff. In my spare time I love eating at restaurants and keeping active at the gym.

Click here to watch Summer's video https://tinyurl.com/yfhpjcjt

Hi, I’m Courtney. I have recently joined Compass Be after working within Barnsley Family centres for over 10 years supporting children, young people and families, which I loved. First as an outreach worker and then as family support providing support 1:1 and delivering groups. In 2018, I was given the opportunity to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in ‘Improving Access to Psychological Therapies for Children & Young People’ (CYP IAPT). The course ignited a new spark and passion within me, and it became my mission to use the knowledge and skills I had learnt and put it into practice. Joining Compass Be for me, was about going straight to the source, by helping children and young people learn to understand and support their own mental health and wellbeing would; in my eyes, ultimately contribute to a better future for the people of Barnsley. Outside of work, I spend time with my family and friends socialising, going for walks or binge watching a good TV series. I’m also a big advocate for self-care and for me that means listening to music or audiobooks, giving myself a little pamper session, cooking etc.

Click here to watch Courtney's video https://tinyurl.com/yc5rrjw4

Hello, my name is Thompson or Tom for short. I have a degree in Sports Coaching Science and have spent some time coaching in schools. I have a passion for cinema, travel, basketball and sports in general. I have always had a fondness in mental health, and I am very grateful to have been chosen to be part of the Compass Be Team. I will be using my experience to engage and support as many young people as I can.

Click here to watch Thompson's video https://tinyurl.com/4zje7rrp

Hi, I’m James, I’m a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner for Compass Be. I’ve been working in a school in Sheffield for the past 7 years, and have had a variety of roles, from being a class teacher to a safeguarding and wellbeing support worker, working alongside the school’s pastoral team. For the last few years, my role in school has focussed on working closely with children and young people, helping to support them with any struggles or additional needs they had in school.
I have Masters in Criminology and Social Research Methods, and studied for a PGCE in Primary Education. In my spare time, I’ll often be found walking in the peak district. I’m also a big fan of going to gigs, and try to watch live music as often as I can.
I’m looking forward to the opportunity to help and support children and young people in Barnsley, I’m excited to join Compass Be, and be a part of some of the amazing work they do.

Hello! I am Sally and I am an Education Mental Health Practitioner at Compass Be.

I work in schools to support young people with their mental health. This could be directly working with them 1:1 or in small groups, or it could be through workshops, assemblies or supporting staff.

I love my job as I get to meet and work with amazing young people and I am proud to be part of the fantastic Compass Be team.

I love a good story and in my spare time I like to watch films, binge watch a good series or lose myself in a book. I also enjoy walking, especially near a beautiful lake or along a beach, and spending time with those I love.

Hello, my name is Kim and I am a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner here at Compass Be. My role is to support children and young people with their mental health and wellbeing through using low intensity cognitive behaviour therapy.

I previously worked as a Secondary School English teacher for over ten years. I left the profession to pursue this career, as I wanted to be in a role that allowed me to support children and young people in a different capacity, rather than just teaching them Macbeth! I also have a Masters in Psychology and Education and have a real interest in how the mind works.

I love working for Compass Be, as everyone is so supportive and caring, with children and young people at the heart of everything that we do. I finally feel that I have found a place where I belong.

Outside of work, I love playing with my three-year-old son, whether this be with his train tracks or reading one of his many books. I am also part of an amateur dramatics society and have been part of many shows and pantomimes.

Hello, I'm Emma, a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner at Compass Be. My role involves supporting children and young people with their mental health. Compass Be is a remarkable organization that consistently prioritizes the needs of children, young people, and their families.
Before joining Compass Be, I worked as a wellbeing practitioner at Compass Rise in Wakefield, where I gained substantial experience in supporting the wellbeing of children and young people. prior to that, I spent four years as a Learning Manager in a primary school, where I acted as the school's mental health champion and ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant). In my role as an ELSA, I provided targeted support to help students develop emotional literacy and resilience, which contributed to their overall wellbeing.
My experience in education began 17 years ago at a secondary school, starting in administrative roles and eventually transitioning into pastoral support. With over 17 years of experience in supporting children and young people, I am deeply passionate about their needs. Holding a degree in psychology, I am driven by a desire to make a positive impact. Witnessing the growth and positive changes in the children and young people I support is immensely rewarding and motivates me to continue learning and developing in my role.
Outside of work, I am a dedicated football mom to three boys who keep me quite busy. When we are not at football games, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. We also enjoy going on weekend family camping trips. This allows us to connect with nature, relax, and create cherished memories together.

Hello! I am Ian. I am very grateful and excited to have been chosen to be a part of the Compass Be Team as a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner.

Previously, I worked as a Primary and Secondary School Teacher, then later branched into Pastoral and Safeguarding roles. I will be using all of my experience to support as many children and young people as I can with their mental health, and helping them reach their full potential.

Outside of work, I am passionate about writing, listening to music, watching theatre and films, and spending time with those I love.

Hello! I am Ella and I am a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner here at Compass Be. I previously worked as a primary school teacher in Sheffield. I have an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology then went onto study for a Post Graduate Certificate in Education.

I am very grateful to be part of Compass Be as I get to meet some amazing children and young people across Barnsley and help support their mental health and well-being.

Outside of work I enjoy reading and spending time with my friends and family.

Hi, I’m Emma, I have joined Compass Be as an AEMHP and now work as the Whole School Approach Practitioner within the team.

I have worked across Barnsley for a number of years in a variety of educational and community settings. I have experience of establishing, coordinating, and delivering social & emotional work in Barnsley schools and community settings and have experience of delivering creative arts-based projects across the borough too.

I love working for the Compass Be team and working as creatively as possible to ensure the best support is available for children and young people in Barnsley. I am passionate about supporting schools to develop their whole school approach to mental health and wellbeing, to reduce the stigma around mental health and ensuring children and young people have the understanding, support, and tools they need. Also ensuring that early intervention mental health support is accessible to all children and young people. I believe that every child and young person is unique and can reach their full potential with the right support. When I’m not working with the Compass Be team,

I enjoy the gym and anything creative including singing, dancing, writing stories and poetry!

Click here to watch Emma's video https://tinyurl.com/y7j5z3eb