Our team is made up of practitioners, project support workers, and community supporters who often work quietly behind the scenes. This allows the focus to remain entirely on the people we support, while we stay united by a shared commitment to the Inverclyde community.
Every person you meet at our hub comes from a diverse background – including approved trainers, peer mentors, and prevention workers. We are all fully trained and dedicated to providing a safe, kind, and confidential environment. We may not all be pictured here, but we are always available in person to offer a friendly face and a listening ear.
Founder and Chief Executive
I am the Founder and Chief Executive of The Anchor, a trauma-responsive, community-rooted charity based in Inverclyde. I established the organisation in 2020 following a personal commitment to take meaningful action against suicide in our community. Under my leadership, The Anchor has grown from a small peer support space into a trusted local service delivering crisis response, early help, and long-term relational support for young people, adults, and families.
I believe strongly in the power of belonging, connection, and hope. To that end, I work closely with partners across education, health, and social work to ensure our support remains accessible and responsive to local needs.
I hold a BA (Hons) in Community Education and, as a father of three, I am deeply passionate about football, youth development, and strengthening our communities. My vision for The Anchor is simple: that no one in Inverclyde faces a suicidal crisis alone, and that every person can access compassionate, timely support when they need it most.
Chair of The Anchor
After retiring in January 2023 as a Social Worker and Registered Manager, I returned to my roots in the voluntary sector to share the knowledge gained over a 25-year career. My journey began in the early 90s as a mental health volunteer following a decade of global travel as a military partner and mother.
Since qualifying as a mature student, I have developed innovative fostering and residential services across the statutory and charitable sectors. My leadership philosophy is simple: one size does not fit all. I believe the most responsive services are built by listening to those they serve and respecting individual rights through true partnership.
Now a grandmother of three, I currently serve as Chair of The Anchor. A personal highlight of this role was being appointed by a panel that included a sceptical young service user; persuading them of the Board’s value reinforced my commitment to advocacy. My career has come full circle – from volunteer to volunteer – driven by a lifelong passion for learning and service.
If you’re struggling right now, you are not alone.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to turn, we are here to listen without judgment. Our support is confidential, compassionate and available to help you through this moment. Our experienced team delivers trauma-informed person-centred support, taking the time to understand your situation and respond to your individual needs with care and professionalism.
If you need immediate help, please use the crisis support options below or contact emergency services in your area.
Reaching out can feel difficult – but you deserve support, care and understanding to which we can provide through our driven and passionate team aiming to give more hope to our local community within Inverclyde.
