Our People
Luke Parsons
Operations Director
I’m a qualified Social Worker and Systemic Practitioner. I have over 8 years post-qualified social work experience in various Safeguarding and Child in Care teams between South Wales, Central London and the West Country. I have a passion for working with young people and families to assist with difficult situations in creating better outcomes.
When not in work I enjoy spending time with my wife and young family and staying active with running, mountain biking and some strength training. I also enjoy spending time with friends and I really like my food.
James Parsons
Finance Director
I am a financial adviser and have run my FCA-authorised advisory company since 2011. I am also a magistrate sitting in the criminal and family courts and proud father to two daughters.
My role within Forest Youth Services is primarily oversight on financial, logistical, IT, data protection and health and safety matters. However I also work as a support worker at least one day a week.
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I enjoy cycling, motorbiking, hiking, travel and spending time with my family.
Jane Chase
Systemic Psychotherapist
I am an experienced therapist having worked extensively with children, couples and families for many years. I have recently worked as clinical lead for a local charity developing and organising their child and family service, and now I exclusively run an independent practice where I run training courses, offer counselling, systemic psychotherapy, supervision and consultancy.
I recently graduated from Birmingham University with an MSc in Systemic Psychotherapy. For the last two years I have held an honorary contract as a trainee Family Therapist with Birmingham NHS Trust working in a CAMHS outpatient unit and in a specialist eating disorder inpatient setting.
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I have two teenage children, and love cooking, my work and my family and our dog keeps me fit!
Karen Shitto
Systemic Family Psychotherapist/Registered Mental Health Nurse
I have worked with children and young people for nearly 20 years as a Mental health Nurse and a Systemic Psychotherapist, in both community and in-patient CAMHS settings and more recently within independent practice. I have experience in offering supervision and consultation to professionals and pride myself in the ability to connect and engage with young people and their family’s. I am passionate about opening space to explore relationships on multiple levels whilst holding multiple perspectives in mind and allowing young people to find their voice.
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As a wife and mother of 3 children at different developmental stages, I enjoy spending time with my family in whatever activity we can agree upon collectively as well as the 1:1 quality time moments with each of them. My interests include; fashion and design, reading, travelling, exploring different cuisines and cultures.
Sam Harness
Manager
I’ve worked with young people in Gloucestershire for the last 20 years as a Youth Worker and have been employed by Gloucestershire County Council and the Youth Support Team. I find it incredibly rewarding supporting young people in overcoming difficulties and working toward achievements.
I believe that young people are the experts in their own lives and it’s important we respect and understand this whilst offering support and guidance. I am married with 2 children aged 12 and 14. In my spare time I love running and generally being in the wild outdoors.
Sarah Cusack
Senior Support Worker
I enjoy working hard to create a safe and happy environment for every individual. Because I grew up in the care system myself I have first hand knowledge of how to make it a positive experience which is incredibly important to me.
When I am not in work I am busy enjoying time with my family and friends.
Betina Garcia
Support Worker
I made the decision to start working with young people over a decade ago and worked with young people all over the county with Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force.
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I love my work, I also love to play, its so important to create some balance in a world where tiredness and exhaustion are seen as badges of honour - my family and I love to cycle, climb, surf and play sports, even if sometimes I don’t fully understand what the rules are.
Mikel Medley
Support Worker
I have over 15 years experience of working with young people. I worked at the Gloucester Youth Service from age 18 and became a qualified Youth Worker in my early 20s working with various youth organisations.
I have a passion for working with young people to try achieve their full potential, raise their aspirations and reach realistic goals in life. I have a keen interest in music and enjoy playing board games and computer games and I like to participate in sport activities. Mikel, aka Dread MC.