Biography
After 30 years working as a journalist, 23 of them at the BBC as a chief news anchor, I qualified as a family mediator in 2022. A passion for helping people navigate disputes led me to mediation. As a journalist, and in my own direct experience, I had witnessed many situations where people get stuck in litigation, taking a heavy toll, both emotionally, financially, and practically. I trained and qualified as a family mediator with the Family Mediators Association, and I am registered with the Family Mediation Council. I am particularly interested in the emotional aspect of dispute and tackling communication difficulties. I also mediate workplace and commercial disputes - trained and qualified with the London School of Mediation. I have also completed the Harvard Law School Program on Negotiation Mediation and Conflict Management course.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
Striving to do the best for clients is at the heart of the culture of the firm. For me, this was summed up on my first day in the office when I saw walls covered with photographs of children who have been represented by the firm in medical negligence cases. The people we work for is what the work is about. It's why I do what I do, and I am proud to work for a firm that cares.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
I find it very moving when two people come to agreement over a difficult situation, knowing they can move forward, positively, with their lives.
What inspired you to get into law/mediation?
Through 30 years in journalism, my particular interest was the people at the heart of news stories, and a strong desire to lend an ear, give a voice and shine a light. It became increasingly clear to me that beyond my role as a reporter, I wanted to step in and do something more proactive to support people stuck in conflict. I trained and qualified as a mediator, and did both roles alongside each other, until I decided to leave the newsroom at the beginning of 2023 and focus on mediation.
What do you do away from the office?
Being a mother to three daughters is pretty full time! Other passions include, wild swimming, running, yoga, qi gong, music, writing, reading, being with friends and family.
