Andy has worked in the youth sector for over 20 years providing support and mentoring to young people across south London and Surrey. Most recently Andy was responsible for managing and delivering the National Citizen Service across this area. Andy is a gifted Youth worker and is keen to see young people supported to be the best they can be.

Buddy Up is a chance for young people to develop skills so that they can thrive in education, relationships and beyond.

Beth has a background in paediatric nursing and has been a senior lecturer on the subject. Beth is currently the Head of Children’s services in the London borough of Sutton. With experience in safeguarding and child health and development, she is an invaluable resource to Buddy Up. Beth, coincidentally, also has a dog called Buddy.

Rowan works supporting children, families and schools in Surrey to access mental health support. As a nurse she has worked in hospitals and schools as well as supporting children with complex medical and emotional needs in the community. Rowan is a local mum who is passionate about advocating for the needs of todays children and young people.

Mieke is one of our mentors and she brings with her 15 years experience of working with children and young people. She has a keen focus on supporting young people to find a true sense of self, to be proud of who they are and to develop their strengths in whatever area they lie. She loves all things adventure and in her spare time can be found taking road trips across the country or spending time in nature.

Georgie is a Nutritional and Behavioural Therapist with a particular interest in emotional and mental wellbeing. She first started working in the youth sector nearly a decade ago and is driven to provide interventions at an early age to set the young person up for life. Giving young people the tools to manage their environment, social media, home life, school, friendships, food and much more is a responsibility Georgie feels an urgency and responsibility for.

Buddy Up is such an important opportunity for young people to be individually heard, understood and guided.

Nicky is passionate about early intervention to promote good mental health and well-being for young people. As well as being a mum to 2 grown up children, she has worked in primary education for many years whilst gaining a degree from the open university. Her life experiences and studies have driven the desire to be part of an organisation who makes a difference.

Nicky enjoys walking in the countryside, swimming, painting or just sitting in the sunshine!