From someone who has sat in your chair
I've worked at director level in the NHS and at senior level in local government. I've built communication and engagement teams from scratch, turned struggling ones around and brought teams together through mergers.
So I understand the pressures you're under: tight budgets, competing priorities and the need to involve people meaningfully while meeting your legal duties. I'll work alongside you, listen first and tailor everything to what your organisation actually needs.
How can I help?
Reviews and skills audits
As a board and executive-level adviser, I'll review your communication and engagement function, run a skills audit and help you re-energise an existing team or build a new one.
Strategy and delivery
Communication and engagement strategies, campaigns, consultation documents, website and social content, plus short-term contracts and projects.
Involving people and communities
Consultation Institute trained and former associate. From neighbourhood-level involvement to the legal duties around NHS consultation, I'll help you make sure voices are heard.
How I work
Listen
I start with an open mind and get to know your people, your context and your goals.
Tailor
No off-the-shelf answers. Everything is shaped around what you need and what will work for you.
Deliver
With energy, warmth and a calm head, ready for the unexpected.
Experience includes
NHS Deputy Director of Communications and Engagement
Senior roles in local government
Campaigns for the NHS, the Local Government Association and local councils
Support for charities and not-for-profits
Journalist, editor and PR consultant
Coaching and mentoring for comms professionals
Support for the people doing the work, from someone who has done the job and is a qualified coach.
“Shelley gave us real insight into how to engage effectively with a wide range of people. Her session was both practical and thought-provoking.”
NHS leader
