Meet The Team

Working with children and young people is a profound passion of mine; particularly in the area of neurodivergence and trauma. I have extensive experience working across both mental health and educational settings focusing on SEND. As a result children, families & school staff benefit from my deep understanding of their challenges and my confidence in communicating their needs and supporting their individual goals.

In my personal life I am an active mother of 4 children spanning between 1 years old and 15 years old. As a family we enjoy board games, hiking and art. My personal hobbies include listening to podcasts, reading academic literature, hiking, attending strongman gym and pottery.

Working as an Art Psychotherapist with children and adolescences for fourteen years has given me the opportunity to gain extensive and varied expertise working with symptoms of dissociation, survivors of abuse, depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicide ideation.

As a clinical supervisor I enjoy being involved in the development of a person’s therapeutic thinking, and I am enthusiastic in exploring the issues that constitute good and effective therapeutic interventions and provide honest and supportive guidance. 

I am passionate about supporting schools to become ‘attachment aware’ and ‘trauma informed’ in order to achieve the best possible outcomes for all children and young people. I also value the importance of team well-being and self-care to ensure this has an inclusive quality in which people feel included, validated and their wealth of experience is respected. 

I value the importance of a good work life balance.  I enjoy spending time with my family walking our dog Indiana Bones. I love being outdoors in the rain or shine running, cycling and open water swimming.

I have over 20 years’ experience of working with young people. I have trained and worked as a secondary school teacher, teaching assistant, child-led play therapist and activity instructor. Working in education gave me an insight into the issues both young people and families face on a daily basis and this led me to pursue my passion in study and psychology and gain a Masters in Psychology before deciding to retrain as an Education Mental Health Practitioner in 2020 and then as a Clinical Supervisor in 2023.

I am passionate about engaging schools and making sure that all parts of the school are working together to help give children and families tools and skills for Mental Health early intervention and help to support schools ethos.

I firmly believe that every child has the right to be heard and understood. I make sure this is central to all the work I do within Changing Lives so that young people are able to make informed and impactful decisions about their care with us, their school and social lives.

Hi my name is Suzi and I am a Team Leader for Changing Lives Derby/Derbyshire.

I am a registered Mental Health Nurse and a qualified Specialist Community Public Health Nurse.

My passion is working with children and young people and supporting them to access early intervention supporting their mental health and well-being.

I have worked across secure mental health facilities and in community settings over the last 11 years.

Throughout my career I am a strong advocate to ensure the child’s voice is always heard.

Outside of work I enjoy days out, swimming and have a love for rollercoaster rides.

I have over 30 years’ experience of working with children, young people, and families in a variety of settings within local government and the charity sector which includes statutory services as well as early intervention.

My roles have ranged from family support worker, social work assistant, senior practitioner, and family support manager.

In 2020 I changed direction into children and young peoples mental health, which has led me to my current role in Compass.

I strongly believe that a child should have a ‘voice’ and should be listened to, so they are able to influence decisions about their lives which brings about change. This is important in all aspects of a child’s life at home, in their community and at school and is a key part to building resilience and good mental health.

Outside of work I enjoy spending quality time with my family, including the dogs. I also like a good boxset binge!

Hi, my name is Claire. I am the Data and Administration Team Leader for Compass Changing Lives. I have worked in a healthcare setting for over 10 years. Starting out in pharmacy services and moving on to administration within the NHS 6 years ago.

I am hugely proud and grateful to be working for such a worthwhile service like Compass Changing Lives. Seeing the positive impact the service has on the lives of our young people and their families within Derby and Derbyshire is heartwarming.

In my own time I am a busy mum of three and dog mum of two. At the weekend, you can usually find me walking with the pups, baking something naughty to be enjoyed with a good cup of tea or playing host on Saturday night or for Sunday lunch. I love musical theatre, going to live music events and UK getaways with my husband and friends.

I have been a mental health social worker for 13 years and have also worked as an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) and Best Interest Assessor (BIA). I have a keen interest and excellent understanding of the legal frameworks that underpin mental health practice. My background has always been in mental health, working with vulnerable adults, young people, and their families who are affected by mental health problems/distress. I have extensive knowledge and experience in assessment, planning, and the delivery of evidence-based interventions with the aim of improving a person’s quality of life and ultimately, their relationship to power.

Some teams/services I have worked in: Adult Social Care, Crisis services, the Early Intervention and Psychosis Team, Core CAMHS, and more recently, CAMHS Eating Disorder Service. I am passionate about helping others develop their confidence, knowledge and skills and I am due to start the PG Cert in Low Intensity Supervision.

I am a mother of three young children. Outside of work, I enjoy running, Pilates, and interior design.

Hello, I am Donna, and I am a Trainee Educational Mental Health Practitioner (tEMHP) at Compass Changing Lives.

My background lies in early years where I spent 20 years working in private day nurseries and primary reception classes. This is what led me to complete my BA Hons in Childhood and Youth Studies and Postgraduate Certificate in Psychology. In school I was the licensed Thrive practitioner and inclusion lead which is where I found a real passion for children’s mental health. I am very passionate about supporting young people with SEN alongside mental health and emotional wellbeing, offering parental/family support, and spreading awareness.

I have loved my career helping children and families, so becoming an EMHP is the next step in my journey to reach even more young people and get them support they need.

In my spare time I love to visit National Trust parks with my two children and husband for walks and picnics. I also love going to the cinema and good, hearty food.

I have spent 18 years working in secondary schools in a pastoral setting, undertaking a Graduate Diploma to qualify as an Educational Mental Health Practitioner in 2020 and completing a further Post Graduate Certificate to qualify as a Supervising Practitioner at the beginning of 2024.

Having grown up in the Bolsover Area, moving away and now relocating back to the area, I feel passionate about supporting the children, young people, families and school staff around their mental health & wellbeing.

Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, baking, being in nature – whether this is walking, searching for a waterfall, riding my bike and spending time with my family.

I studied for my PG Cert in Psychological Wellbeing Practice at Northampton University (30 years after my first degree from Nottingham University) after spending 5 years working in a Primary School supporting vulnerable children as a Learning Ambassador and DDSL. Prior to that I spent 18 years in Catering and Hospitality as a Licensee and 10 years building cars for Toyota. During my time at school I also gained Counselling Studies Level 3 and trained as a Bereavement Support Volunteer with CRUSE and Mental Health First Aider.

At the weekends you might find me cycling around the Derbyshire countryside with a local club, I enjoy taking part in Audax rides, usually of around 200km. I also enjoy following football and watch Middlesbrough home and away. I love watching live music!

Hi I’m Beth, a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP). I have previously worked as a secondary school SEND teaching assistant. However, just before coming to Compass I worked as a family support worker specifically working with children with life-limiting illness and bereaved families – this is something which was really life changing! I’m hoping to use some of my previous learning in my new role as trainee EMHP at Compass Changing Lives. I’m really pleased that I have the chance to play a part in improving the lives of Children and Young People in Derbyshire. Out in the community and in schools I’ve seen the need for accessible mental health support for children. I really believe that with the right early intervention in place every child can be given a chance to thrive and achieve their personal goals.

I’m a really active person and find this super beneficial for my own wellbeing. When I’m not working at Compass, I enjoy playing in a netball league, going to the gym or going out with my running club!

Hi, My name is Emma. I have always been passionate about mental health, studying an undergraduate in BSc Counselling and Psychotherapy.

My previous experience is within schools and a social development program for young people, I have fallen in love with working with children and young people and the inspirational professionals dedicated to the wellbeing of children. To have the honour of being part of such a community only sets my heart alight with passion and strive to develop further.

In my free time, I enjoy being in the outdoors with my pet pug called ‘Grace’ and visiting my family at the seaside.

I firmly believe that the role of a Mental Health Practitioner is one which has exceptional impact and I am looking forward to qualifying as an EMHP.

Hi, I’m Hannah, a Supervising Practitioner at Compass Changing Lives. I have an undergraduate degree in Primary Education. Whilst studying and working in classrooms, I developed a keen interest in working with children and young people beyond academic teaching.

I am passionate about supporting children and young people’s emotional and mental wellbeing, so I feel privileged to be able to support families across Ilkeston. Prior to working for Compass Changing Lives, I completed my post-graduate certificate in psychological wellbeing practice (Children & Young People).

In my spare time I love going to watch musicals. My favourite musical is Hamilton!

I am a Supervising Practitioner in the Ilkeston team.

After studying Psychology at Loughborough University, I worked as a Learning Support Assistant in a school for students with autism.

I began my training for the EMHP role in January 2020 and have been with Changing Lives ever since.

I’m excited to work for Compass because they have big ambitions for supporting children and young people with their mental health. It’s very rewarding working with a team who help young people thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

In my spare time I enjoy playing the piano, reading and walking my dogs, Milo and Murphy.

My name is Sam, I am a Mental Health Practitioner with Compass Changing Lives. I am passionate about supporting children, young people and their families with their challenges around mental health. When I am not at work, I can be found renovating my new house or walking my two dogs, Willow and Harley. I love to be sociable and enjoy going out for lovely meals with friends and family.

Hi, I’m Megan and I have a passion for supporting Young People to be their best. I am very privileged to be able to do this with Compass Changing Lives. I am also a Rainbow guide leader and an archery instructor for Scouts. I got my Psychology degree at Sheffield Hallam University and then kind of fell into this job that suited my passion perfectly.

Outside of working I love camping and walking/hiking in the outdoors and in the colder months I love to snuggle up with a book and complete a reading challenge.

Hi I’m Hayley.

I completed my Psychology degree at the University of Northampton; on graduation I was unsure as to what I wanted to do for a career but knew I had an interest in mental health.

After working within mental care with the elderly for 7 years, I had my little boy, and through supporting him with difficulties he had with his speech I realised that I still had a passion for working with mental health but with children, to help them to reach their full potential.

Outside of work I love dancing, in particular ballet and tap, and playing the flute. I also love going for long walks with my family, jumping in puddles with my little boy and going home to read a book together.

I like baking, running, hiking in the peaks with my dog, reading, spending time with friends. My passion is supporting young people and their families with mental health difficulties, helping to break the stigma around mental health and help those who are struggling to thrive as young people should, and live life with a happy and healthy mind.

I have worked in a wide range of educational settings for over 12 years, from specialist education schools, post 16 college, alternative provision in main stream secondary school as well as supporting and managing a year group of 150 students with a variety of different and diverse needs, ranging from ASD, ADHD, challenging behaviour, anxiety and low mood and many more. I have supported students with their mental health and emotional wellbeing to achieve a successful education by empowering, nurturing, and building on their confidence and self-esteem to believe in themselves.

I listen to audio books on how to improve myself professionally and personally, I enjoy playing/teaching netball, weight training and, running and time with my family.

I have spent 14 years working within health and education settings starting as a support worker with Mencap as a teenager at University. I also gained experience with supporting elderly people and in a low intense secure unit.  I made my journey into education settings in 2017 starting in primary school settings then progressing on to secondary school settings . I was a head of house and pastoral manager before starting my journey as an educational mental health practitioner then a supervisor. Educationally I attended Loughborough University and completed a bachelors degree in psychology .I then completed a Masters degree in forensic psychology at the University of Nottingham and then a Post Graduate Diploma in education mental health practice.

I currently volunteer as mental health link governor for a local primary school supporting them to implement mental health and well being policies , train staff . to support a whole school approach and to provide a link between school and the governing body.  In my spare time I enjoy running , swimming and walking my two rescue dogs in the peak district.

Hi, I’m Zoe! I completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with the Open University in 2015 before completing a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Science in 2019. I initially trained as an English teacher but decided to leave teaching to pursue my interest in mental health. I have previously worked with Derbyshire Youth Justice Service as a Family Support Worker, empowering young people to make positive changes in their lives. I enjoy working for Compass Changing Lives because it gives me the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of the young people I work with. Outside of work, I am a mum to three amazing teenagers, and I enjoy spending time with my husband and family. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, running, yoga and Pilates.

Hi, my names Kate and I am a Trainee EMHP based in Glossop. Before joining Compass I had the pleasure of working as a SEND Teaching Assistant working mostly 1-1.

It was a privilege to work with these young people and their families and it was this that sparked my passion with regards to young people’s mental health and inspired me to complete a Counselling qualification.

When I’m not at work I’m busy spending time with my family and enjoying the outdoors with my fur baby Rosie ( A very smelly German Shepherd)

Hi, I am Vickie Taylor, trainee EMHP in the Glossop team. I have been a teacher for most of my career in mainstream and SEND schools and have recently undertaken a MSc Psychology in Leeds which led me to want to move into supporting CYP with their mental health. In my spare time I am usually found with my head in a book, walking, playing tennis or spending time with friends and family. I love travelling and spent some time living in France where I learnt to speak French, ski and I also ran a drama group with the English KS3/4 in the International school in which we put on a pantomime each year, which was great fun.

I felt ready to change direction in my career and am excited to be given the opportunity to retrain in mental health as part of such a dynamic, supportive and talented team and hopefully to make a positive contribution to the service here at Compass changing lives

I’m a qualified counsellor. I’ve worked in schools, employee advice and specialised in helping people with autism. Before that I worked as a learning mentor with young people with additional learning needs. Part of this job was supporting a work experience placement in a cave!

I love being outdoors, walking in the Peak District, cycling (although there are too many hills in Derbyshire!) and I have recently bought a sailing boat.

I am very pleased to have started working for Compass Changing Lives. Everyone seems great to work with and fully behind helping young people keep mentally healthy.

I feel lucky to live in Derbyshire. I came here from the North-East over 20 years ago. Both my daughter and son have grown up here. In fact my parents followed me to Buxton, so they could enjoy seeing their grandchildren growing up.

My career has always been dedicated to helping children and families and especially now with targeted support for mental health.

In my spare time I enjoy being outdoors, walking our 2 dogs and socializing with friends. I love the sunshine and visiting new places especially if this allows me to see friends and family abroad, enjoying life in foreign climes

Hi I’m Yasmin. After completing my BA(hons) degree in Creative Expressive Therapies (Art pathway) I worked in a secure mental health unit delivering therapeutic support to service users.

I then went on to working in an SEMH school as a Positive Behaviour Support Lead before completing the PGDip in CYP-IAPT Education Mental Health Practice. I have over 10 years experience supporting mental health.

In my spare time I enjoy shopping and eating out. I also love spending time with friends, family and my 3 crazy Dalmatians!

Previously I worked for CAMHS after graduating from The University of Northampton studying Psychology, receiving a first-class honours.

I lived in New Zealand for a year working within a secondary school when I was 18, I also volunteered in Tanzania for 4 weeks when I was 16

Working in CAMHS gave me the experience of working within Crisis settings, highlighting the importance of prevention

Hi, I’m Kay.

I am excited to be supporting young people with their mental health needs as a Educational Mental Health Practitioner.

I have a foundation degree in early childhood studies at Staffordshire University followed by a BA top up in CAMHS (Child and adolescent mental health services) at Worcester University.

I hold a real passion towards supporting future generations in understanding mental health and the benefits to be had. I have personal experience of the improvements that one can experience from receiving education and support towards understanding mental health.

My personal pastimes and interests lie around family, I also have a love of animals and love taking the family dog out on scenic walks away from the busyness of everyday life.

Hello! My name is Joe and I am currently training to be an Educational Mental Health Practitioner. Since graduating from Loughborough with a Sport Psychology degree, I worked as a teaching assistant with junior school SEN children before accepting my current role which I am very excited about!

In my spare time, I enjoy playing and watching all types of sport, including football, cricket and darts. I am a Leicester City supporter and try to go to as many games as I can, so if I have lost my voice this is probably the reason why!

I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology before working as a teaching assistant within an Enhanced Resource Unit, mainstream school and one to one with children with SEND.

I then worked within an NHS Learning Disabilities Team working within the community and family’s homes around complex behaviours and carrying out assessments and interventions within a Clinical Psychology Team.

I then trained and qualified as an Education Mental Health Practitioner working in schools in Burton for a few years before moving to Compass as a Supervising Practitioner.

I enjoy going to the gym, swimming, walks with my dog Maple, and being creative!

Hi, my name is Anisah.

My educational background is in Child and Family Health and Wellbeing, and I completed my degree in 2020 during the first lockdown.

I have since gained significant experience in working with children and young people in various settings including local schools and eating disorder services.

These experiences have enabled me to develop and enhance several skills such as being empathetic and compassionate towards individuals and having the ability to communicate effectively with them.

I am excited to continue working in this field as I am passionate in supporting children and young people.

Apart from work I run my own henna business which gets super busy depending on the season. I also enjoy cooking for the family and go gym and boxing to stay active and healthy.

I have a degree in primary education and have worked in education as a teacher and in various capacities for the last 10 years.

In my role prior to joining Compass, I planned and delivered an alternative curriculum provision for children with SEND and behavioural needs. I also trained as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant and delivered bespoke individual or group interventions to support pupils with their emotional health and wellbeing.

It was through this work that I discovered a passion and dedication to want to do more to support the mental health of our children and young people.

I am thoroughly excited to be working for Compass Changing lives. I resonate strongly with the vision to provide help at the earliest opportunity and to improve access to emotional and mental health support for all children and young people, ensuring everyone can receive the support and advice they need.

In my personal life I love spending quality time with my two sons and family. We love playing board games together and having movie nights.

I enjoy walking and being in nature, I love to cook and try new recipes and enjoy mindfulness through being creative such as painting or hand lettering.

I have worked in various early years settings for over 10 years in places such as Vietnam, Dubai and the UK.

I trained as a Primary teacher at 27 at the University of Worcester but decided that the role as the lead teacher was not where I wanted my time to be focused. I decided on a career change and worked in the events industry for 4 years working on local Derbyshire events such as ‘The Sausage & Cider Festival’ and ‘Back 2 Festival’. However, I always felt a pull to work again with children and when this position came up it seemed too good to be true.

I have always been passionate about improving mental health and wellbeing in myself and others and I am excited to help as many children as possible on this journey.

When not at work I like to go walking with my cockapoo and getting out in nature, binging crime series, or watching Harry Potter on repeat.

I am a qualified CYP Wellbeing Practitioner by background and worked with Build Sound Minds Derby/Derbyshire as a Family Support Practitioner for 2 years before training as a low intensity supervisor.

I am excited to join a brand new wave of MHSTs where I can participate in it’s growth and evolvement. I am most excited in the formation and shaping of the MHST in which suits the needs of the Centre of Excellence and feeder schools we work with.

I love to travel and experience different cultures, cuisines and lifestyles.

After initially training to be a teacher I decided I wanted to get more into the field of psychology and helping young people get the most out of life. I then studied for part time for a degree in psychology whilst getting some experienced in different roles within health, education and social care.

I then got a job training as a Children’s Wellbeing Practitioner in the initial stages of the development of MHST’s before eventually progressing up to my current role as a Supervising Practitioner (trainee).

I love being able to use my knowledge and experience to help young people to grow and flourish so they achieve their full potential.

Outside of work I love running, gardening, being outdoors, music, and spending time with family and friends.

In my spare time, I go to musical theatre classes and enjoy putting on shows and making others smile. I also love spending time with my family and loved ones (including my pet guinea pigs). They say laughter is the best medicine, and who doesn’t like watching guinea pigs ‘popcorn’ around the place!

Hi, I’m Katy! I completed my Psychological Wellbeing Practice training at the University of Northampton. I also have a Masters degree in Dance Movement Therapy.

Previously, I have worked for an eating disorders charity and in a neurological rehabilitation unit.

Outside of work, I enjoy days out with my family, socialising with friends and going on walks (especially on a nice, sunny day!).

I am very passionate about working with children and young people to improve their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Hi, my name is Rebecca and I have a BSc in Psychology degree and Postgraduate Diploma in Children and Young People’s Wellbeing Practice. Before this I worked in Residential childcare and adult mental health.

I am passionate about advocating for children and young people and supporting their mental health and wellbeing so they can become the best version of themselves. I am looking forward to my new role at Compass and working with young people and their families.

Outside of work I love travelling, cooking and listening to music! As well as spending quality time with my wonderful family and friends.

I have a BSc Psychology degree and Postgraduate Certificate in Psychological Wellbeing Practice (Children & Young People). I have previous experience in children’s residential care homes and as a behaviour mentor in schools. I am currently studying a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Supervision.

I am proud to work for Compass Changing Lives, supporting the team to provide early intervention support services. I love how my team supports each other and utilises individual strengths to provide the best quality service possible. I am passionate about supporting Children and Young Peoples Mental Health.

When not at work I love to read, travel, go on walks with my dog, and spend time with friends and family.

I’ve been working with Changing Lives since January 2021 where I started as a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner. In January 2022 I became an Education Mental Health Practitioner, where I provided low intensity Cognitive Behavioural Interventions to children and young people in Derby City. Currently, I am completing a Post Graduate Certificate in high intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to become a Psychotherapist. This will allow me to develop my skills and experience, and provide more support to children and young people.  

I absolutely love working in a Mental Health Support Team, and I think supporting children and young people with their mental health is so important.

Outside of work I am often listening to music or podcasts, going out for walks, spending time with friends, or gaming!

I am excited to be able to offer children and families low intensity support and early interventions, as I see this as the best way to spread awareness about mental health struggles and to normalise them.

I enjoy seeing young people make changes in their lives and in learning how to help themselves, and to help parents feel empowered to make changes within their family unit.

I love to spend time outdoors and can often be found foraging for wild food. I’m a big fan of Scrabble and Bananagrams, and I enjoy the odd game of chess.

I am loving my role at Compass! Previously I was a teacher and loved working in schools with children. In my spare time I love muddy field walks with my dog and enjoy anything outdoors related! So camping, swimming, skiing are just a few of my hobbies.

I have graduated with a BSc in Psychology and Msc in Developmental Psychology after going back into education as a mature student. I am passionate about helping children and young people with their wellbeing. My previous experience is primarily in school settings, working with primary, secondary and SEND children. I have also worked supporting adults in mental health settings and conducted mental health support groups for a local charity.

I feel my current role will have such an amazing impact on our children and young people and I feel privileged to be a part of this journey.

In my spare time I enjoy reading, swimming, walking my dogs and days out with my family.

Hi, I’m Laura, an Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP) at Compass Changing Lives. After gaining my Psychology degree in Sheffield I spent a few years working in SEN education settings in various roles including a Learning Support Worker, Therapy Assistant and Learning Mentor. Following this, I worked as a Senior Practitioner on a neurodevelopmental assessment and diagnosis team before deciding to complete my training as an EMHP to provide more therapeutic support again. I am very passionate about supporting young people with SEN alongside mental health and emotional wellbeing, offering parental/family support and spreading awareness and inclusion.

In my spare time I love meeting up with friends and family and going for hikes in the Peak District as well as going out to eat. I also love going to the theatre and music festivals!

Hi, I’m Katrina and I am a Mental Health Practitioner at Compass Changing Lives.

For 15 years I have worked in children’s services as a family support worker. I supported children, young people and their families experiencing a wide range of difficulties. During this time, I completed an Enhanced Evidence Based qualification, working 1:1 with young people who display a variety of mental health difficulties which really interested me and made me want to follow this path to support children and young people further specifically around helping them have “good” mental health.

Outside of work I love spending time with my family and friends, and my two crazy cats. I am very happy when out on my walks which helps me to switch off and relax.

I am a Senior Mental Health Practitioner. I am also a fully qualified and Accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist. I enjoy working therapeutically with children and families and supervising the practise of my colleagues. I have previous experience as a Psychologist – within an Autism/Learning Disability Service and in a Secure Forensic setting and I’m a qualified Primary Teacher. I enjoy walking my dog, doing exercise classes, spending time with my family and singing (whether anybody else enjoys this or not!)

Hi I’m Lauren! I am a Mental Health Practitioner and have been working with children and young people my whole career. I began as a primary school teacher and then moved into mental health. I absolutely love the work that I do, and it is great to be part of such a passionate team.

Outside of work I am a Mum of two boys and have a Golden Labrador. I enjoy family days out, days in the garden in the sunshine, journaling and creating digital art. I am happiest with a cup of tea and a slice of cake. I am lucky to have family who live in a gorgeous part of Cornwall, and I love spending time on the beach.

Hello, I am Natasha and I am Mental Health Practitioner at Compass Changing Lives.

I recently completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Children & Young People’s Wellbeing Practice and prior to this an Undergraduate degree in Special Educational Needs and Disability. Previous to my role in Compass Changing Lives I have worked in roles including a Children’s Wellbeing Practitioner and 1:1 Specialist Teaching Assistant in primary education.

I am passionate about supporting children/young people and their families to access the right support at the right time and I am excited to be part of the Compass Changing Lives Team to support children and young people’s mental

I’m Mel and I am excited to be the Engagement and Equalities Practitioner at Compass-UK Changing Lives.

My background is working with and supporting young people in a school environment for the past 16 years as both a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant and a Cover Supervisor.

Outside of work, I love being in the outdoors, walking and camping. I am a guide leader in the Guide Association and an archery instructor at my local scout campsite.

Hi! My name is Carn, and I run social media, the service page and more here at Changing Lives. Mental health is a subject that is very near and dear to me, and that’s just one of many reasons I’m proud to be working for Changing Lives. I’m glad to call the Peak District my home, where I love to spend time outdoors hiking and exploring. I’m currently doing my best to see as much of the world (and eat as much of the world’s different foods) as I can.

Hi I’m Carla. I’m very excited for my new role as Family Practitioner.

I was previously an emotional wellbeing worker supporting young people and families. I am very passionate about giving young people and families the support they need. I am very happy to be part of such an amazing team.

I have worked within children’s services now for over 19 years and I love the work we do!

I previously worked in disability short breaks, and also worked with parents delivering separated parents programmes.

Outside of work I enjoy yoga, walking and spending time with family and friends.

I have 2 grown up children and 3 naughty dogs!

I have been working within social and education settings for around thirteen years, starting as a volunteer pastoral worker  whilst completing my Psychology BSc at The University of Huddersfield. I completed my dissertation on the effectiveness of school pastoral teams in supporting children and young people who had experienced bereavement.

Following graduation I worked for Together Trust, within their residential homes, as a Residential Social Care Worker and Keyworker for children and young people experiencing emotional and behavioural challenges. Since then I have worked in various roles including as a Placement Officer for Mencap and then for the Department for Education T-Level trials at Macclesfield College, and as Service Manager for Derbyshire Autism Services.

With lived experience of neurodivergence and of being a looked after child, I am driven to support others to work in a neuro affirming and trauma informed way. I am passionate about my own continual learning and professional development and get genuine pleasure from supporting others in this endeavour.

In my own personal life I enjoy nothing more than relaxing at home with my partner and our pets, travelling the UK and the wider world, reading, and running Dungeons and Dragons sessions as a Dungeon Master. 

Hi, I’m Rachel! I studied for a Psychology BSc undergraduate degree at The University of Nottingham where I achieved a 2.1. I learnt a lot about mental health and why people behave in the way that they do. I then went on to study a PGCE and I have spent the last 10 years of my career working as a Primary School Teacher, specialising in Early Years. However, I wanted a change into mental health when I saw the importance of early intervention with children and the significant impact this has on the lives of all those involved. I have a lived experience of mental health and really value the importance of people getting the right help at the right time with the right service, which I know Compass values strongly too. I have two girls who take up most of my time at the weekends. We enjoy swimming, particularly outdoor swimming, and I have recently started yoga

Hi, My name is Heather. I am an Administrator at Changing Lives Compass MHST. I have been working in Administration for over 20 years and have worked in a variety of sectors.

I feel immensely proud to be able to be part of this incredible Service which is going to make such a difference to so many people living in the Derby City/Derbyshire areas.

Outside of work I love spending time with my family exploring new places, socialising with friends & cuddling my cat, Izzy!

In my spare time, I love escaping to video games, spending time with my partner and watching comedy TV shows. I am very passionate about mental health, it means a lot to me personally.

I am very proud to be an administrator at Changing Lives, as I am passionate about mental health, and the strive for progress and educating the masses!

In my spare time, I put on monthly music events at a local recording studio, create illustrations based on pop-culture/favourite movies, play music, pester my cats, and try to get outside as much as possible!

I am passionate about Mental Health and access to support due to my own experiences. In my spare time I am a supporter of the Nottingham Panthers ice hockey team and attend all matches as a season ticket holder. I love going to the Cinema and Theatre or can happily spend time watching films at home.