Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Interests
Accomplishments
Main hobbies: Performing artist: drama, comedy, musicals, pantomime; singer/songwriter, worked with bands of various genres
Timeline
Sarah Skye-Craig

Sarah Skye-Craig

Writer/Therapist/Legal PA
Brynamman,Carmarthenshire

Summary

CREATIVE WRITER skilled in crafting poetry, songs, and narrative prose. Developed unique insights into storytelling while navigating personal learning differences, enhancing ability to approach projects from innovative perspectives. Currently refining debut novel and engaging in multiple writing initiatives.

DEDICATED COMPLEMENTARY & INTEGRATIVE THERAPIST: Fertility & Pregnancy Reflexology, working collaboratively with clients to resolve various issues through the application of advanced reflexology techniques specific to fertility and pregnancy, labour and birthing, as well as a number of other professional head and body massage treatments. Offering over twenty years of continued development as a holistic practitioner, to provide bespoke, innovative therapies targeted to specific wellbeing needs. I have also worked as a Volunteer Therapist in Hospice care, therapeutically treating in-patients and out-patients, liaising and collaborating with medical, other therapeutic and spiritual/chaplin colleagues, patients' families, and supporting the bereavement process to the patients facing a terminal diagnosis, their families, and when a precious family member has died.

LEGAL PA/SECRETARY: I have over twenty years legal secretarial/assistant experience and have worked in most fields of law, but my main legal interests are / would be working within the Criminal Justice System, Law Enforcement, and Criminal and/or Family lawyers, providing support for partners/fee earners.

Overview

10
10

Certifications/Diplomas/Degree

43
43
years of professional experience

Work History

Creative Writer

Self-Employed
06.2021 - Current
  • Currently editing my first manuscript (novel).
  • I write Poetry and Prose - fiction and non-fiction
  • Contributed creative ideas in team meetings, enhancing innovative content strategies.
  • Developed original content for various platforms, including blogs, websites, and social media, to engage a diverse audience.
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with industry experts and sources, enhancing the depth of written pieces.
  • Managed multiple writing projects simultaneously, meeting tight deadlines without compromising on quality.
  • Edited and proofread written pieces before submission, correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
  • Selected various graphics to accompany written material.
  • Checked work for accuracy of content and grammar.
  • Conducted extensive research, ensuring accuracy and depth in written projects.
  • Analysed feedback from readers to improve future writings, demonstrating a commitment to audience engagement.
  • Researched and wrote articles for trade publications.
  • Led workshops on creative writing techniques, sharing expertise and inspiring aspiring writers.
  • Conducted thorough research on a wide range of topics to produce factually accurate and compelling narratives.
  • Contributed to creative brainstorming sessions, generating innovative ideas for storytelling and content creation.
  • Translated complex information into accessible and engaging content for general audiences, enhancing understanding and interest.
  • Managed multiple writing projects simultaneously, meeting all deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards.
  • Collaborated with editors and clients to refine writing pieces, adhering to specific style guides and project requirements.
  • Maintained a keen eye for detail, ensuring that all written content upheld the highest standards of quality and professionalism.
  • Tailored writing style to suit project scope and target audience.
  • Proofread and edited written copy before submitting to publisher.
  • Updated instruction booklets and publications.
  • Actioned feedback to continuously improve writing abilities.
  • Completed writing assignments according to set standards regarding order, clarity, conciseness, style and terminology.
  • Participated in literary festivals and events, networking with industry professionals and expanding professional connections.
  • Implemented feedback from editors to revise articles, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to improve.
  • Drew inspiration from diverse sources to create innovative content ideas.
  • Edited and proofread manuscripts, ensuring grammatical accuracy, coherence, and consistency in style and tone.
  • Collaborated with editors and other writers to refine article ideas, improving readability and coherence in final submissions.
  • Coordinated necessary revisions and edits with cross-functional team.
  • Produced and submitted drafts ahead of deadlines.
  • Led workshops on effective writing techniques, sharing expertise with aspiring writers and colleagues.
  • Provided constructive feedback to fellow writers, fostering a supportive and collaborative working environment.
  • Used creative storytelling to develop innovative and compelling stories.
  • Maintained consistency with text style, fonts, images and tone across projects.

Fertility&Pregnancy Reflexologist & Comp.Therapist

Self-Employed
04.2005 - Current
  • Interviewed and examined patients to detect and treat anomalies, ailments and/or disorders.
  • Reviewed and documented patients' progress in treatment plans, noting adverse reactions to adjust methods for optimal outcomes.
  • Shared information concerning patients with other healthcare professionals for continuous and comprehensive care, with consent.
  • Developed and refined treatments by studying and analysing traditional and complementary medicines.
  • Applied knowledge, skills and practices gained through research, continuing professional development and study. in maintaining good human health.
  • Discerned patients' needs, ailments or disorders by listening actively during diagnostic sessions.
  • Fostered therapeutic relationships with patients through regular follow-ups and check-ups, enhancing trust and adherence to treatment.
  • Diagnosed and treated reproductive health anomalies through consultation and assessment of the feet through ReproflexologyTM, prior to each treatment; treating within my own professional boundaries, with the use of Reproductive & Pregnancy Reflexology - both of which are specialisms and prescriptive.
  • Communicated benefits of healthy lifestyles to clients, providing referrals for diet and exercise to support those facing challenges in conception.
  • Worked with healthcare professionals in referring and solving complex and emergency care cases.

Legal Personal Assistant/Secretary

Self-Employed
London/Southwest UK
02.1983 - 09.2016
  • Handled emails and written business correspondence on behalf of partners/fee earners.
  • Monitored emails and correspondence, prioritising and responding on behalf of partners/fee earners to streamline workflow.
  • Acted as the first point of contact for the partners/fee earners, screening calls and visitors to manage access and protect time.
  • Managed complex diaries, scheduled meetings, and coordinated travel arrangements for partners/fee earners to optimise their time efficiently.
  • Coordinated and booked meetings, conferences and client appointments for managers.
  • Organised and facilitated board meetings, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, and following up on action points to support decision-making processes.
  • Drafted legal documents: taking and typing and/or audio typing Client/Witness Statements, Affidavits, Court forms, including Legal Aid forms, Instructions to Counsel.
  • Drafted and/or audio-typed correspondence to clients and legal representatives, other professionals including Medical/Clinical, Police, Coroners, Medical Examiners, CAFCASS.
  • Drafted and/or audio-typed all manner of legal documents involved in Criminal law, Family law, Litigation, numerous other legal arenas.
  • Liaised with clients, fee earners and professionals to take messages or personally handle issues.
  • Handled sensitive information with discretion, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations and company policies.
  • Maintained digital and physical filing systems following practices for organisation and information protection.
  • Communicated meeting action points to relevant staff for prompt resolution.
  • Prepared meeting spaces and equipment for events and presentations.
  • Updated shared calendars with accurate meeting and event information.
  • Organised travel arrangements on behalf of colleagues, including booking hotels, transport and restaurants.
  • Processed expense claims and managed budgets for executive office, delivering regular financial reports to ensure transparency and accountability.
  • Implemented administrative processes and technologies to streamline operations and optimise resource allocation within executive office.
  • Managed project timelines and deliverables, coordinating with various departments to achieve objectives within set deadlines.
  • Coordinated events and conferences, managing venue selection and attendee logistics to ensure seamless execution.
  • Fielded high-volume business calls through successful switchboard operation.
  • Worked with Microsoft Word and Google Docs to complete word processing tasks.
  • Scanned and photocopied documents for team members using office equipment.
  • Took accurate and detailed notes at meetings covering agenda items, action points and proposals.
  • Collated and organised business documents within orderly systems.
  • Oversaw maintenance of office equipment and facilities, liaising with contractors to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.
  • Negotiated with suppliers and service providers to secure cost-effective solutions for office needs and executive requirements.
  • Compiled and analysed feedback from staff and clients to identify areas for improvement in executive leadership and office operations.
  • Assisted with the recruitment process for the team, from drafting job descriptions to organising interviews.
  • Used accounting software to prepare company bills and process incoming payments.
  • Implemented administrative processes and technologies to streamline operations and optimise resource allocation within executive office.
  • Fielded high-volume business calls through successful switchboard operation.

Education

Master of Arts - Creative Writing

Bath Spa University, Bath
01-2021
  • Master's Degree Graduate
  • Intensive Workshops: Sharing own and workshopping other students' work weekly, participation in reviews, discussing read texts (books) with peers weekly
  • Contextual Modules: Examining literary trends, form, the roles of publishers and literary agents and editors
  • Dissertations in disciplines studied: The Love Story, Historical Fiction, Professional Skills, Prose/Poetry
  • The Manuscript: Developing and crafting writing, bringing it to a full length major project, drafting and editing, one-to-one Manuscript tutorials with assigned Tutor and published writer/industry mentor.
  • Final Dissertation Project: Submitted 40,000 words of a larger project (117,000 words) - The Manuscript.
  • Merit Academic Achievement Award
  • Member of Students' Union

Postgraduate Specialism - Reproductive Reflexology

Seren Natural Fertility, UK
01-2012
  • Member of the Association of Reproductive Reflexologists (ARR) currently inactive - reinstating soon
  • Member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) currently inactive
  • Accredited Courses: ReproflexologyTM pioneered and taught by Barbara Scott of Seren Natural Fertility
  • Part 1 ReproflexologyTM included indepth study of the male and female reproductive systems, understanding frequent and less frequent medical conditions/disorders/anomalies that may hinder conception, pregnancy or live birth; correcting/reducing the issues using prescriptive protocols (techniques) in with the application of reproductive reflexology - ReproflexologyTM - to improve overall health, male and female reproductive health, resolving anomalies discovered via consultation and assessment, referrals to other healthcare professionals, including GPs for bloodwork, NHS sperm analysis, specialist indepth sperm analysis, fertility scientists/androgenists, fertility clinics, counselling, diet/lifestyle.
  • Part 2 Indepth study of Reproductive Medicine, medical conditions that may require Assisted Conception modalities, including IVF, ICSI, Egg donation, Surrogacy and applying ReproflexologyTM protocols, ie mirroring the behaviours of the fertility drugs patients are taking, assessing weekly, adjusting, assessing before and post ultrasounds, post-implantation support, to improve the outcome of the assisted conception a patient(s) is receiving.
  • Dissertations and Powerpoint presentations in areas of study.
  • Practical exams
  • Annual CPD
  • Additional indepth study
  • AGM

Postgraduate Specialism - Pregnancy & Birthing Reflexology

Maternity Reflexology Susanne Enzer, Hampshire
01-2009
  • Indepth study into the hormones of pregnancy, endocrine system, the stages of pregnancy
  • Indepth study of common ailments experienced during pregnancy
  • Indepth study of more serious health conditions experienced during and postpartum by some patients
  • Learning and applying prescriptive Maternity ReflexologyTM protocols pioneered and taught by the now retired senior midwife, Susanne Enzer
  • Practical learning sessions
  • Practical exams
  • Dissertations in areas of study
  • Researching and completing Case Studies and presentating outcomes to Tutor via inperson Powerpoint

NVQ Level 3 - Swedish Massage, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, Body Massage

VTCT Level 3 at Strode College, Street, Somerset
01-2008
  • VTCT Level 3 Certificates and Diplomas respectively (2004-2008)
  • Member of Federation of Holistic Therapists
  • Indepth Study and Coursework in the above therapeutic modalities
  • Health & Safety: Class lectures in all areas of Health & Safety in a Clinical Environment
  • Dissertations in the above therapeutic modalities and Health & Safety
  • Practical in-class sessions and workshops
  • Patient treatments onsite at the college and in the community
  • Researching and completing Case Studies
  • Practical exams

VTCT Level 3 Clinical Diploma - Providing Complementary Therapies in the Clinical Environment

Federation of Holistic Therapists, Birmingham
01-2005
  • Residential Course in 3 parts: Learning about the medical/clinical environment within the NHS and how our therapeutic modalities fit in clinically, understanding working alongside medical professionals; knowing when to refer back to medical caregiver
  • Researched into our focus area of study and applying our gained knowledge, practical and academic experience to the process, in my case, Cancer and end of life care. Volunteered at a local Hospice for 3 years.
  • Dissertations for all areas of the course
  • Harvard Referencing and citations.
  • The tutor said this Level 3 Diploma was more akin to a first year degree level or Level 5.

Practitioner Level II - Practitioner Level II Reiki

Lorraine Davies, Herefordshire
01-2005
  • Learning about the history of Usui Reiki
  • Learning the techniques of Usui Reiki as a practictioner
  • Creating and completing Case Studies
  • Presenting Case Studies for marking
  • Learning about distance Reiki healing
  • Practicals in all matters relating to Usui Reiki
  • Practicals in distance Reiki healing
  • Presenting Case Study in distance Reiki healing

Advanced Indian Head Massage Diploma - Advanced (Ayurvedic) Indian Head Massage

Lorraine Davis , Herefordshire
01-2005
  • Learning the history of Ayurveda
  • Learning the Marma points around the body
  • Practical Sessions learning how to apply the advanced Ayervedic IHM therapeutic treatment techniques from the head to trunk (and lower back) and head, face to chest.
  • Research and indepth study throughout
  • Practical exam
  • Dissertation

Skills

  • Creative writing
  • Narrative writing
  • Novel writing (one almost finished Manuscript)
  • Original content creation
  • Editing and proofreading
  • Meticulous proofreading and editing
  • Document editing
  • Poetry
  • Poetry expertise
  • Spoken Word performer
  • Versatile storytelling
  • Storytelling
  • Audience engagement
  • Workshop facilitation
  • Research methodologies
  • Research ability
  • Research analysis
  • Literary analysis
  • Creative thinking
  • Creativity and imagination
  • Creative visualisation
  • Academic writing
  • Digital communication skills
  • Technical communication
  • Fast accurate typing
  • Computer literacy
  • Attention to Detail
  • Grammar skills
  • Grammar and spelling
  • Relationship building
  • Client relationship management
  • Client relations
  • Customer engagement
  • Customer service
  • Interpersonal relations
  • Relationship-building
  • Empathetic understanding
  • Active listening
  • Effective communication
  • Communication proficiency
  • Feedback analysis
  • Constructive criticism reception
  • Intellectual curiosity
  • Inspiring creativity in others
  • Multicultural sensitivity
  • Work well under pressure
  • Commitment to finishing projects
  • Risk Management
  • Decision Making
  • Many of the above skills have been acquired and/or improved on the Master of Arts degree
  • Digital communication skills
  • Client relations
  • Client Relationship Management
  • Commitment to finishing projects
  • Work well under pressure

Many of the above skills have been acquired and/or improved on the Master of Arts degree

Certification

  • Level 7 Master of Arts in Creative Writing
  • Level 3 Certifications & Diplomas - All listed in this CV
  • Level 2 City & Guilds Hairdressing & Barbering, with some Beauty modules

Interests

Writing prose and poetry Performing Spoken Word Live Music - singer with bands of various genres and musicians over the years Studio Recording Theatre performing - all sorts I love Stand-Up Comedy Travel

Forensic Linguistics: Informal studying as a member: forensic linguistics/statement analysis with Alistair Lee of Veroscope This could be a particularly useful skill when working in criminal and family law/law enforcement/criminal investigations/trials, but also in day to day life

True Crime podcasts, I'm involved with various True Crime YouTubers and frequently interact with the channel owners and their communities, follow cases through to trials and beyond (mostly US/Canada based)

I'm an avid reader and book listener of: Literary fiction, Historical Fiction, Crime & Police Procedure, Psychological thriller, non-fiction: Criminal & Forensic Psychology, Mental Health, Murder, Personality Disorders, Health, Psychology

Accomplishments

  • While working as a Legal PA from my late teens and over many years: Frequently recognised by management for initiative, proactivity and ability to work alone and as part of a team, under pressure with urgency and efficiency
  • Built and nurtured key patient and professional relationships when working as a therapist
  • Collaborations with other professionals and like minded individuals in the Arts and also in medical/clinical/therapeutic environs
  • Royal College of Music Piano & Music Theory Grade I Merit (age 13)
  • While I was a late starter in higher education, I came to learn that was solely due to having undiagnosed learning differences in early life, so I am quite proud of my therapy and creative accomplishments, the latter of which, my Master's Degree, was a dream I never thought possible, but I persevered and worked so hard on my writing, that I was accepted on the course and finally achieved it.

Main hobbies: Performing artist: drama, comedy, musicals, pantomime; singer/songwriter, worked with bands of various genres

  • Working with likeminded creative individuals and theatre companies in London, the Southwest UK and Wales, to bring entertainment to the locality and further afield
  • Songwriting as a team and solo
  • I've had the pleasure of being asked to provide vocals, backing vocals in studio recording sessions, with a number of musicians and bands over the years and loved every second of it, some of whom, I was an integral member, lead and backing vocalist
  • Rehearsing and performing live music
  • Rehearsing and performing live theatre in Southwest UK and Wales
  • Rehearsing and performing spoken word

Timeline

Creative Writer - Self-Employed
06.2021 - Current
Fertility&Pregnancy Reflexologist & Comp.Therapist - Self-Employed
04.2005 - Current
Legal Personal Assistant/Secretary - Self-Employed
02.1983 - 09.2016
Bath Spa University - Master of Arts, Creative Writing
Seren Natural Fertility - Postgraduate Specialism, Reproductive Reflexology
Maternity Reflexology Susanne Enzer - Postgraduate Specialism, Pregnancy & Birthing Reflexology
VTCT Level 3 at Strode College - NVQ Level 3, Swedish Massage, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, Body Massage
Federation of Holistic Therapists - VTCT Level 3 Clinical Diploma, Providing Complementary Therapies in the Clinical Environment
Lorraine Davies - Practitioner Level II, Practitioner Level II Reiki
Lorraine Davis - Advanced Indian Head Massage Diploma, Advanced (Ayurvedic) Indian Head Massage

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Sarah Skye-CraigWriter/Therapist/Legal PA