Ice-breaker

I believe it's important to kick this off with you getting to know a bit more about me. Increasingly so, given that we live in a world where we must attempt to dismantle power structures which historically have seen the built-environment, services & experiences devised by people in positions of power only. Traditionally, the white, the male, the neurotypical & socio-economical upper classes. Where 'designs' and the processes of arriving at them have not only been the opposite of user-centric, but problematic in a number of ways. Knowing a bit more about me, my values and who I am within design practice may help in some way to facilitate a more open conversation.

I was born and raised in Fife, Scotland. Predominantly my time was spent in a single-parent household, we were working class, where money was scarce with my mother working in healthcare. Community spirit was strong, we played out in our streets and the local woods. Grandparents were inspirational and wise figures with tales of how our small town used to be.
I'm white, able bodied, yet I have carefully managed a mental health condition (anxiety over the past 15yrs or so). You'd barely notice it about me today, given the confidence I have with public speaking or in life generally, but generally the result of traumatic childhood experiences. Its perhaps this experience which makes me quite good with people, as a support network, as a listener, advisor, line manager or advocate for looking after yourself.
I'm well travelled, having seen a lot of Asia, Australasia, Europe & North America. I love immersing myself in other cultures, food, the history of a place and generally I attempt to have my eyes opened by other ways of living and doing things.
In my career I have been lucky to work in communities up and down the UK. From Devon as head of design for an agency implementing participatory-led and relational design practices with children, young people & families. While also working in Chester on the wrap-around services within a built-environment for social housing and those leaving care. As well as experience in Bristol with families engaging with cancer services. Closer to home I have managed the online advice service for the charity Shelter, and worked with the BBC to enhance the digital-first experience for younger audiences.
I ride motorcycles, I’m a big believer in health & fitness, working out, eating well and I love cooking for other people.
Throughout each experience my core values are; to respect others, be an active-listener, demonstrate that the quieter individual or introvert can be the extrovert, the speaker, or the facilitator of change when called upon. While accepting that we're all still learning, un-learning, and carry privileges within our practices, starting-points and daily life.