Hello. Thank you for looking at my profile. Let me tell you a little bit about me. I am married with two grown up daughters, both are married. My family are my world. My life has included stories of grief and bereavement, and these have been frightening times. I have had the honour of supporting friends as they have faced end of life and provided emotional and practical support. These experiences, along with my recent hospice work, drew me to the work of End of Life Doula UK. I am also qualified as an Independent Funeral Celebrant and have set up a business called “Always & Beyond”- support through life, death and grief. My vision is to encourage conversation about death and dying, and for people to feel comfortable with talking about it and making plans.
My work history holds varying roles, including work with offenders and being a foster carer for under 5’s. Most recently, I spent 7 years working in a hospice, leaving that role in March 2024. I was part of the Patient and family support team that provided emotional, psychological, and spiritual support to patients and families at a pivotal time in their lives. I was able to offer gentle listening, and space to reflect. Sitting with people as they faced fears, anxiety, uncertainty helped me develop a heart to be in that place, hold space with them, and to be on the journey the way they needed and wanted to be.
Family and friends tell me I am calm, compassionate and caring…and a very dear friend once told me “I can’t think of anyone I would rather have by my side as I face the end of my life.” Laughter and tears, joy and grief will sit side by side, and all have an important part to play as you process and reflect. The belief that life should be filled with quality, for as long or as little time that we have is a core value of mine. My heart lies in walking alongside you as you face uncertain times and helping you know that you are not alone in whatever you face.
I will sit with you in your space and listen without judgement. We can have conversations regarding practical matters, such as funeral plans, wills, your wishes for your end-of-life care. I can support you as you leave memories for your family and friends, such as letters, or memory books. I will support you, your family and your friends in a confidential space and be beside you as you all navigate this time ahead.