I currently deliver national training on the role of social care in the implementation of Part 3 of the Children and Families Act 2014 - Special Educational Needs and Disability reforms. I lead our work on the Social Care Innovation programme working with 5 local authorities to deliver and facilitate a learning and innovation programme. I regularly give presentations to regional and national audiences across education, health and social care on putting policy into practice. I have authored a recent report on innovation in disabled children's social care assessment as well as having co-authored a number of fact sheets as part of my role as national lead on best practice and information for the Preparing for Adulthood programme including: The links between the Children and Families Act 2014 and the Care Act 2014; and the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and supported decision making.I have led on an innovative training model for professionals on the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and supported decision making, using forum theatre and developed with a group of learning disabled artists.I manage and maintain two websites and also lead on communications and social media (including use of Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Hootsuite and Wordpress blog) for two of CDC's networks.

Care Quality Commission Registered Manager for the Disabled Children's Team Outreach Service supporting local families by providing short break care for 0-18 year olds with complex health needs and autism and behaviour that challenges.The role included managing a team of up to 20 support staff and using person-centred approaches to develop clear care plans and support strategies for children, young people and their families.

I was the Founder and Managing Director of Friends 4 Adventure. My passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs began in 1996 when I started volunteering with a 9 year old boy with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder. My experience in the years since has included 1:1 support for young people in the community. Working on a summer play scheme for young people with a wide range of disabilities and most recently as the Registered Manager with the Care Quality Commission for an outreach service for 0-18 year olds with complex health needs, physical and learning disabilities and Autism.I am committed to improving my knowledge and skills and have attended many training courses over the years, including:•Enhancing Communication•Positive ways of changing behaviour•Understanding Autism•Epilepsy Awareness•Safeguarding for Disabled Children•Implementation of the Training and Development Standards for Short Break CarersI have completed an NVQ 4 in Leadership and Management in a Social Care setting and I am currently working towards an NVQ 5 in Leadership and Management in Children and Young People’s Services. My enthusiasm for outdoor activities and my belief that these opportunities build self-esteem and encourage social and independence skills come from my own involvement with the Scout Association. Formerly as a Venture Scout and as an Explorer Scout Leader.