I am a great believer in the power of coaching, having benefitted myself from a number of one-to-one sessions during my career. I also found it beneficial using a coaching approach with staff. I have since coached a variety of people, mainly around career and work life balance issues, which is the area I tend to specialise in.
My background is in public sector housing management. I volunteered at the Careers Development Group (CDG) and provide coaching to long term unemployed job seekers, helping them to improve their confidence and motivation, their CV's and interview skills. I currently volunteer at a migrant support centre again providing support to clients through challenging situations such as unemployment.
My other qualifications include a BA in Social Science, an MA in Housing Studies, and an IDeA Certificate in Leadership. I regularly attend the London Coaching Network which helps me keep up to date with developments in the coaching world and to learn from the experience of others.
Ten years ago I got the opportunity to take early retirement from my post as a senior manager in the public sector. Although I loved my job I thought this would be a good opportunity to re-focus my career and develop those aspects that I loved best.
This led me to re-train with the Institute of Leadership and Management where I gained the ILM Level 7 Certificate in Executive Coaching and Leadership Mentoring. I am a member of the Life Coach Directory, the recognised professional body for business coaches (see link below). I have a professional qualification in the Therapeutic Use of Mindfulness, and I am also registered with the European & Coaching Council (EMCC).