Shelley has worked within both the statutory and voluntary sector supporting children and families for over 27 years. She brings extensive professional training and qualifications, including Level 5 Health & Social Care, Level 4 Play Support, Level 4 Volunteer Management, Level 7 Strategic Business Management, and a wide range of specialist safeguarding, trauma‑informed and early‑years development training.
Shelley is also trained in several evidence‑based parenting programmes, including Triple P (Stepping Stones) and Parenting Plus (Tavistock Relationships), as well as baby incredible years she has completed additional qualifications in autism, emotional wellbeing, Drawing & Talking Therapy, and early‑years practice, baby massage and antenatal education.. Her parenting expertise underpins Home‑Start CJC’s commitment to delivering high‑quality, relationship‑based support for local families.
Throughout her career, Shelley has demonstrated a strong track record in designing and delivering innovative projects that respond to local need and remove barriers to participation. Her work at the Royal Association for Deaf People was shaped by both professional experience and lived experience as the parent of a profoundly Deaf, non‑oral son. She campaigned for greater inclusion and created the pioneering “Sign Me Up” project, opening up volunteering opportunities for Deaf adults. Shelley also qualified as an A1 Assessor, enabling her to assess Deaf students using British Sign Language and support them to achieve NVQ units. Her advocacy led to a change in RAD policy, ensuring all Deaf applicants were guaranteed an interview to build confidence and interview skills.
Shelley was first introduced to Home‑Start while working with British Forces Germany. After managing the Home‑Start BFG scheme, she received the organisation’s highest honour — a General’s Commendation — recognising her outstanding leadership and impact.
In 2011, Shelley became CEO of Home‑Start Colchester, Jaywick & Clacton. Her passion for supporting families is evident in her relentless commitment to securing funding, strengthening partnerships and developing services that meet the needs of vulnerable families. Under her leadership, Home‑Start CJC has grown significantly and delivered a wide range of innovative projects, including Fun‑Start, Recipe4Health, Time4YOU, Together, Shine Bright, and many more — all designed to create opportunities for local children and families to reach their full potential.
Shelley continues to lead the organisation with compassion, creativity and determination, ensuring Home‑Start CJC remains a trusted, high‑quality service for families across Colchester and South Tendring.