Hi, I’m Crystal. I am currently in my final year of study to become a qualified person-centred counsellor. I also volunteer for SHOUT, which is a text support service. I have been volunteering here for a year and a half and have seen it grow from strength to strength. Prince William even signed up to volunteer here during the first lockdown!
I have always had a passion for working with children and started babysitting from as young as 12 for many local families, who I am still in touch with. I was set to follow that path after leaving school. Unfortunately, poor health made that dream hard to commit too at that time. However, I learned a lot about myself during this time. I also began to understand my preferred style of learning after attending a parent and child maths class at my daughter’s school. This has been invaluable to, not only my studies, but to be able to see how people can achieve when the right support is in place.
I was born in Basildon and still live here with my two children. A daughter aged 14 and a son aged 11. I enjoy being creative and have previously worked as a balloon decorator and sweet tree party organiser for children. I enjoy nature walks with my children and dogs and I also love listening to music and singing along when I know I cannot be overheard!
I am very excited to be joining the Kool Carers team and supporting the young carers and their families.