Staff & Trustees - TalkFirst

Tracy Sheppard, Manager & Mediator

Hi, I’m Tracy Sheppard and i’m the founder of TalkFIRST.

I am passionate about supporting family life through improved communication and the understanding of each other to help resolve and prevent conflict.

I facilitate family mediation and work to help build better relationships. I am accredited with The Family Mediation Council; member of The College of Mediators.

Martine Delaney, Trainee Mediator & Trustee (Chair)

I am a Chartered Legal Executive and an accredited civil and commercial mediator. After 20 years of representing clients in dispute I considered that encouraging my clients to seek a solution and be part of that process might reach a better outcome than a court decision.

As part of the mediation process disputing parties can drive a resolution that best suits them. At the end of the day no one knows better than the parties in dispute what will work best for them and people are more inclined to work with a plan they have been a part of. That applies at work and at home. A happy and healthy home life is a vital foundation for all of us.

Bev McIntyre, Relationship

I have a wealth of experience, both personally and professionally, to offer. I`m caring, conscientious and “can do!”.

Having been a working Mum for most of my career I easily connect with parents to listen and offer advice, support and guidance. I have a background in child care ( NNEB) , child protection, parenting assessments, early intervention and family liaison.

My belief is that a loving supporting family unit, in whatever diverse form that may be, enables happy children to mature into happy resilient adults

Christine Boydell, Administrator

I have been a part-time administrator at TalkFIRST since January 2018, and also work as a secretary within the NHS. I have lots of administrative experience within children’s services and I have some previous administrator experience with local charities.

I am very practical and methodical and try my best to organise the team!

I have two children and a gorgeous grandson.

Emma Klieve, Trustee

I joined the board as a Trustee in February 2020 after working within the legal industry for several years.

I am currently working as a Private Client Paralegal with a view to commencing my training contract in September 2021. I graduated with a 2:1 degree in Law (LLB) from the University of Liverpool in 2013 and completed the LPC LLM in 2018 at the University of Law, Chester, with a distinction, studying an elective in Family Law and Practice.

My experience allows me to bring a different perspective to the board.

Brian Rees, Volunteer

I am a retired Bank Manager with over 40 years experience primarily working with SME’s and Charities. I am currently a Trustee with Age UK and am delighted to be able to work as a Trustee supporting local charities.

I see a real value that mediation can add in resolving family disputes particularly if it avoids the costly and challenging legal system. I believe that supporting and improving family life can only benefit us all.

Damon Musgrove, Trustee

I am a national bid writer for a Sports Trust and I’m currently in the process of writing my first book to be published next year.

Lee Whalley, Trustee

I’m Lee, the guy behind all the social media, website stuff, and anything that looks good at TalkFIRST. I run my own digital marketing business called The Hook Design – you can check it out right over HERE.

Becoming a trustee over at TalkFIRST has genuinely put a smile on my face. I’ve had my fair share of family court drama and a pretty messy breakup, so I’ve got a solid connection with the organisation. They were there for me when things got really tough, offering advice and support that I’ll forever be thankful for. I’m chuffed about giving back and being a part of their team.

Find me on Linkedin

Mitesh Halai, Trustee

My name is Mitesh Halai, and I have been successfully running businesses in Wigan for over 16 years.

Throughout this time, I’ve grown alongside my customers and developed a deep appreciation for the community that has supported me.

As a way to give back, I was honoured to join the trustee board of TalkFIRST, where I can contribute to making a positive impact on the local community.

Stephanie Grosvenor, HR Consultant

I’m a qualified Human Resources (HR) professional with previous experience working within the charity sector for a major children’s charity, plus 15 years working in education HR.

I have a great interest and passion in ensuring children have the best foundation for their future life, this includes the right support for them when their family life changes. A service like that provided by TalkFIRST is invaluable in supporting children and adults through one of the most challenging times in life, which is why I am donating the support of my professional skills to this fantastic organisation.

John Boumphrey, Legal Consultant

I am a Barrister of 30 years based at Park Square Barristers in Leeds. I have a well-developed practice encompassing contract, tort, employment, copyright, trade marks, passing off, sport and aspects of media law including defamation. I advise across the full range of General Common Law and I am particularly drawn to cases which include a range of issues. I am joint head of the PSQB Commercial and Chancery group.

I am greatly impressed by the power of family mediation and the work that TalkFirst does to reduce conflict and resolve disputes. I am very pleased that I can offer my skills and time to support TalkFIRST’s goals.