Kirsty Simms
Summary
Compassionate and experienced community support professional with a strong connection personally and professionaly to the local area. Experienced in supporting vulnerable individuals and families through person-centred, community based approaches, with a strong focus on building trust, reducing isolation and improving wellbeing.
Skilled in working collaboratively with health professionals, social care and voluntary organisations, facilitating group and one to one interventions, and maintaining accurate records. Motivated by a genuine commitment to community wellbeing.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Community Health Development Worker
Barnardo's
Eastleigh & Romsey, Hampshire
2018.07 - Current
- Delivery of workshops on child development topics to local families.
- Facilitates sessions in Early Years settings focusing on oral health and wellbeing.
- Conducts wellbeing walks to promote post-partum exercise and strengthen community ties.
Lead Worker Foundation Years & Play
Sure Start
Southampton
2015.06 - 2018.07
- Provided one to one support for families within home environments.
- Advocated for families in accessing community services and support networks.
- Established trusting relationships with families to enhance engagement and participation.
- Lead Stay and Play and Creche sessions for families and signpost them to relevant services for additional support.
Early Years Assistant
Poppies Pre-school
Southampton
2012.09 - 2015.06
- Supported teacher-led group activities fostering team work amongst children.
- Assisted in the planning and implementation of daily activities, promoting engagement.
- Developed strong relationships with parents through open communication and regular updates.
- Facilitated learning by creating engaging educational resources for children.
Supervisor Playworker
Rebecca's Out of School Club
Southampton
2012.03 - 2015.06
- Planned, scheduled and delegated daily tasks to ensure a safe environment.
- Fostered positive relationships with parents to ensure consistent communication regarding child's progress and behaviour.
- Reviewed staff performance and provided personalised feedback in appraisals.
Camp counsellor
Camp America
Pennsylvania, America
2014.06 - 2014.08
- Built team spirit amongst campers through various group activities.
- Oversaw camper safety during adventurous activities, ensuring no harm came to any child.
- Handled administrative duties diligently; ensured smooth operation of daily routines.
- Inspired self-confidence in children through leadership training sessions.
Education
BA Hons Degree - Childhood, Youth and Community Studies
University of Winchester
Winchester 2009.09 - 2012.07
NVQ Level 3 - Working with Parents
Southampton City Council
A-Levels - English, Sociology and Applied I.T
Barton Peveril College
2007.09 - 2009.06
GCSEs - English, Maths & Science
Hamble School
Skills
- Person-centred support & engagement
- Community outreach & group facilitation
- Multi-agency working & safeguarding
- Organisation & recording on a variety of different systems
- Knowledge of Eastleigh & Romsey community and support services for families
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Community Health Development Worker
Barnardo's
2018.07 - Current
Lead Worker Foundation Years & Play
Sure Start
2015.06 - 2018.07
Camp counsellor
Camp America
2014.06 - 2014.08
Early Years Assistant
Poppies Pre-school
2012.09 - 2015.06
Supervisor Playworker
Rebecca's Out of School Club
2012.03 - 2015.06
BA Hons Degree - Childhood, Youth and Community Studies
University of Winchester
2009.09 - 2012.07
A-Levels - English, Sociology and Applied I.T
Barton Peveril College
2007.09 - 2009.06
NVQ Level 3 - Working with Parents
Southampton City Council
GCSEs - English, Maths & Science
Hamble School