Meet the Team.
Our Team
Sharon Belshaw
CEO - Clinical
I joined Break the Silence as clinical lead and now oversee the clinical team, all clinical services, and co-lead executive duties alongside Lesley. My varied experience spans public sector, private sector, education, and consultancy roles. I’m a BACP and BPS member, an associate with Trauma Response Network UK, and hold an MSc in counselling, PG diploma in person-centred counselling, PG certificate in cognitive behavioural therapy, BSc honours in psychology, qualifications in hypnotherapy and NLP, plus training in EMDR and positive outcomes for dissociative survivors. I’ve participated in the King’s Fund cascading leadership and Inspiring Scotland inspiring leaders programmes, and I’m pursuing a doctorate in psychological trauma at the University of Chester. I was a recipient of the ‘everyday hero award’ from North Ayrshire health & social care partnership. I have had articles published in the British Journal of Midwifery and Autism Parenting Magazine on the subject of sexual abuse, and spoke at APM’s global conference in 2024. Currently, I am an executive contributor to Brainz magazine, writing articles that support professionals working with vulnerable people. Outside work, I cherish time with my family, exploring new countries, and going to the gym.
Lesley Craig
CEO - Operations
I joined Break the Silence in 2016 as Head of Income Generation, bringing experience from the private and third sectors in charity management, trusts/foundation fundraising, project management, development, and sustainability. A MCIOF(Dip) member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, I hold the Institute of Fundraising’s Certificate/Diploma in Managing Fundraising, Certificate in Fundraising Practice, and have completed the Future Leaders Programme (2019), European Framework of Quality Management Accredited Assessor training, King’s Fund Cascading Leadership, Inspiring Scotland Inspiring Leaders, mchPositive’s New Leaders Programme (2022), Social Investment Scotland’s Coaching for Impact (2023), and Sustainable Leadership Programme (2024). More recently, I completed the Social Investment Scotland’s Ambitions Programme (2025). In my personal time, I enjoy coastal walks and being outdoors.
Melanie Fieldhouse
Clinical Lead
My path to therapy was diverse – from hairdressing and machining (upholstery/clothing) to banking and administration – before returning to education a few years later. A basic counselling skills course sparked my passion, and I worked in healthcare supporting voice hearers in residential settings, then completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Person-Centred Counselling (University of Strathclyde, 2015) and a Diploma in Compassion-Focused Therapy, and most recently training in EMDR. I’ve served in mental health units, women’s refuges, and addiction services. Joining Break the Silence five years ago aligned perfectly with my commitment to helping clients overcome barriers, build resilience and work towards post-traumatic growth. I aim to create a space of trust and safety where clients feel welcomed, seen, and heard without judgment. Personally, I nurture my wellbeing through meditation and being in nature and I enjoy travelling, or spending time with family and friends
Lesley Anne Pratchett
Clinical Lead
I trained originally as a physiotherapist, working across the UK in neurological rehabilitation and long-term conditions, always drawn to holistic care that addresses the body, the brain, and broader factors that impact a person’s health. My early interests in emotional support led me to train in relationship therapy and then, over 16 years, I trained in a number of approaches while working as a physiotherapist, counsellor and psychotherapist. I switched to working solely as a psychotherapist in 2021. I have worked with Break the Silence since 2012, first as short-term cover, later being promoted to clinical lead. I value its client-centred focus and team spirit – our clients have taught me much about trauma, resilience, and healing. I strive to create non-judgemental spaces for expression, playfulness, and trust to foster connection. In my down time, I like to be outdoors, in the water, the hills and the sunshine!
Jim Smith
Finance Officer
Jim Smith joined Break the Silence Finance Officer in March 2022. Jim is a CIMA qualified management accountant with over 30 years’ experience in various finance roles, mainly within FMCG, manufacturing and e-commerce environments. The Finance Officer assists the CEO (Operations) to ensure compliance with the income generation strategy and associated workplans, and to undertake the effective operation of all accounting functions within Break the Silence. The range of responsibilities relates to financial forecasting, project budgets, income/expenditure, payroll processing, quarterly and end of year accounts and reports, and formal submissions in line with legislative requirements to OSCR, Companies House and HMRC.
Jen Richards
Development Officer
With over 12 years in communications including experience in academic publishing and four years at the Edinburgh International Book Festival, I now support the CEOs at Break the Silence, maintaining our social media presence and external comms, applying for external accreditations, and helping develop a new website. My role aims to support the resilience and sustainability of the charity. As a PR practitioner, I previously boosted the profiles of educational organisations, charities, and healthtech startup businesses. I started working with BtS in January 2026. Passionate about health and wellbeing in its widest sense, I am interested in herbal medicine, nutrition, running and strength training. Outside of work, I juggle a busy family life in Drummore in the south-west of Scotland, home-educating one of my three children, working towards qualification as a gym instructor, and training for my second marathon.
Tracy Hurford
Client Liaison Team
I joined Break the Silence in 2016, managing administrative functions such as diary coordination, client appointments, the client management system, and clinical file handling. My background includes financial management, child protection, charity management, governance, business management, and economics – equipping me to support trauma-informed operations with efficiency and care. Together with Margaret, I am often the first point of contact for calls, emails, and referrals. I was proud to be announced co-recipient of North Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership Administration Stars Award in 2020. Outside work, I value family time, socialising, music & the theatre.
Margaret Moore
Client Liaison Team
As part of the Client Liaison team, I help manage initial client contacts via calls, emails, and online referrals, ensuring everyone feels respected and supported from the outset. Our team is trauma-informed and committed to respecting dignity in every interaction. I joined Break the Silence in 2016 as a volunteer then became an employee in 2018. Prior to this role, I had spent my working life in the public sector. I have completed several training courses at Break the Silence including adult protection, suicide awareness, safeguarding children and mental health first aid. Ongoing training supports my skills, knowledge and experience, ensuring that the best possible help is provided to all clients. Along with Tracy, I was co-recipient of the North Ayrshire health & social care partnership administration stars award in 2020. In my spare time, I love spending time with my family and enjoy yoga, reading and walking.
Our Team
Sharon Belshaw
CEO - Clinical
I joined Break the Silence as clinical lead and now oversee the clinical team, all clinical services, and co-lead executive duties alongside Lesley. My varied experience spans public sector, private sector, education, and consultancy roles. I’m a BACP and BPS member, an associate with Trauma Response Network UK, and hold an MSc in counselling, PG diploma in person-centred counselling, PG certificate in cognitive behavioural therapy, BSc honours in psychology, qualifications in hypnotherapy and NLP, plus training in EMDR and positive outcomes for dissociative survivors. I’ve participated in the King’s Fund cascading leadership and Inspiring Scotland inspiring leaders programmes, and I’m pursuing a doctorate in psychological trauma at the University of Chester. I was a recipient of the ‘everyday hero award’ from North Ayrshire health & social care partnership. I have had articles published in the British Journal of Midwifery and Autism Parenting Magazine on the subject of sexual abuse, and spoke at APM’s global conference in 2024. Currently, I am an executive contributor to Brainz magazine, writing articles that support professionals working with vulnerable people. Outside work, I cherish time with my family, exploring new countries, and going to the gym.
Lesley Craig
CEO - Operations
I joined Break the Silence in 2016 as Head of Income Generation, bringing experience from the private and third sectors in charity management, trusts/foundation fundraising, project management, development, and sustainability. A MCIOF(Dip) member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, I hold the Institute of Fundraising’s Certificate/Diploma in Managing Fundraising, Certificate in Fundraising Practice, and have completed the Future Leaders Programme (2019), European Framework of Quality Management Accredited Assessor training, King’s Fund Cascading Leadership, Inspiring Scotland Inspiring Leaders, mchPositive’s New Leaders Programme (2022), Social Investment Scotland’s Coaching for Impact (2023), and Sustainable Leadership Programme (2024). More recently, I completed the Social Investment Scotland’s Ambitions Programme (2025). In my personal time, I enjoy coastal walks and being outdoors.
Melanie Fieldhouse
Clinical Lead
My path to therapy was diverse – from hairdressing and machining (upholstery/clothing) to banking and administration – before returning to education a few years later. A basic counselling skills course sparked my passion, and I worked in healthcare supporting voice hearers in residential settings, then completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Person-Centred Counselling (University of Strathclyde, 2015) and a Diploma in Compassion-Focused Therapy, and most recently training in EMDR. I’ve served in mental health units, women’s refuges, and addiction services. Joining Break the Silence five years ago aligned perfectly with my commitment to helping clients overcome barriers, build resilience and work towards post-traumatic growth. I aim to create a space of trust and safety where clients feel welcomed, seen, and heard without judgment. Personally, I nurture my wellbeing through meditation and being in nature and I enjoy travelling, or spending time with family and friends
Lesley Anne Pratchett
Clinical Lead
I trained originally as a physiotherapist, working across the UK in neurological rehabilitation and long-term conditions, always drawn to holistic care that addresses the body, the brain, and broader factors that impact a person’s health. My early interests in emotional support led me to train in relationship therapy and then, over 16 years, I trained in a number of approaches while working as a physiotherapist, counsellor and psychotherapist. I switched to working solely as a psychotherapist in 2021. I have worked with Break the Silence since 2012, first as short-term cover, later being promoted to clinical lead. I value its client-centred focus and team spirit – our clients have taught me much about trauma, resilience, and healing. I strive to create non-judgemental spaces for expression, playfulness, and trust to foster connection. In my down time, I like to be outdoors, in the water, the hills and the sunshine!
Jim Smith
Finance Officer
Jim Smith joined Break the Silence Finance Officer in March 2022. Jim is a CIMA qualified management accountant with over 30 years’ experience in various finance roles, mainly within FMCG, manufacturing and e-commerce environments. The Finance Officer assists the CEO (Operations) to ensure compliance with the income generation strategy and associated workplans, and to undertake the effective operation of all accounting functions within Break the Silence. The range of responsibilities relates to financial forecasting, project budgets, income/expenditure, payroll processing, quarterly and end of year accounts and reports, and formal submissions in line with legislative requirements to OSCR, Companies House and HMRC.
Jen Richards
Development Officer
With over 12 years in communications including experience in academic publishing and four years at the Edinburgh International Book Festival, I now support the CEOs at Break the Silence, maintaining our social media presence and external comms, applying for external accreditations, and helping develop a new website. My role aims to support the resilience and sustainability of the charity. As a PR practitioner, I previously boosted the profiles of educational organisations, charities, and healthtech startup businesses. I started working with BtS in January 2026. Passionate about health and wellbeing in its widest sense, I am interested in herbal medicine, nutrition, running and strength training. Outside of work, I juggle a busy family life in Drummore in the south-west of Scotland, home-educating one of my three children, working towards qualification as a gym instructor, and training for my second marathon.
Tracy Hurford
Client Liaison Team
I joined Break the Silence in 2016, managing administrative functions such as diary coordination, client appointments, the client management system, and clinical file handling. My background includes financial management, child protection, charity management, governance, business management, and economics – equipping me to support trauma-informed operations with efficiency and care. Together with Margaret, I am often the first point of contact for calls, emails, and referrals. I was proud to be announced co-recipient of North Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership Administration Stars Award in 2020. Outside work, I value family time, socialising, music & the theatre.
Margaret Moore
Client Liaison Team
As part of the Client Liaison team, I help manage initial client contacts via calls, emails, and online referrals, ensuring everyone feels respected and supported from the outset. Our team is trauma-informed and committed to respecting dignity in every interaction. I joined Break the Silence in 2016 as a volunteer then became an employee in 2018. Prior to this role, I had spent my working life in the public sector. I have completed several training courses at Break the Silence including adult protection, suicide awareness, safeguarding children and mental health first aid. Ongoing training supports my skills, knowledge and experience, ensuring that the best possible help is provided to all clients. Along with Tracy, I was co-recipient of the North Ayrshire health & social care partnership administration stars award in 2020. In my spare time, I love spending time with my family and enjoy yoga, reading and walking.
Our Trustees
Nicola Buchanan
Chair
Nicola joined the Break the Silence board in September 2023 and became chair in March 2026. Nicola is Senior Financial Control and Treasury Manager at CMS, based in Edinburgh. An ICAS chartered accountant with over a decade of senior finance experience, she specialises in financial reporting including sustainability reporting, treasury, regulatory compliance, process improvement and transformation. Nicola also serves as a trustee for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) and is a member of the disciplinary committee for ICAS. She was delighted to raise funds for BtS by taking part in the 2025 Kiltwalk.
Soph McCormack-Gow
Trustee
Soph joined Break the Silence in September 2025, bringing over a decade of experience in the arts and cultural sector. They currently work as the Strategy Lead with Made Media, collaborating with leading international clients such as the Cleveland Orchestra, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and the National Youth Theatre. Soph has held senior roles in digital consultancy and customer success, most recently as Head of Customer Success at CultureSuite, following years with Scottish Ballet. Their career has shaped a deep understanding of the challenges facing non-profit and creative organisations, from funding pressures to stakeholder engagement. Combining global insight with practical leadership, Soph supports Break the Silence with expertise in digital transformation, strategic planning, and data‑driven growth.
Scott McCurdy
Trustee
Scott is a Chief Inspector in Police Scotland’s Contact Command & Control Division, based in Glasgow. He has served for over 20 years, and he previously led the response to Violence Against Women and Girls across Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway. Throughout his career, Scott has held roles in local policing, corporate services – where he supported IT and change programmes for Police Scotland’s executive – and contributed to the national planning team for COP26, one of the UK’s largest policing operations. He ran the London Marathon 2026 to raise money and awareness for Break the Silence. Passionate about supporting survivors, Scott believes in shaping services informed by the survivor voice. He joined the Break the Silence Board in September 2024, bringing extensive expertise in safeguarding, leadership, and organisational change.
Joyce Murray
Trustee
Joyce has been described as a social disrupter – a title she wears with pride. She is the founder and former Chief Executive of Positive Changes (Scotland) CIC, a multi‑award‑winning social enterprise that supports women who have touched the justice system to fulfil their potential through training, employment, and confidence‑building. Before launching Positive Changes, Joyce worked across the private and charity sectors in business development, marketing, and operations. A trained Restorative Justice practitioner, she is also an international speaker and coach, helping social entrepreneurs and leaders create greater social impact. Joyce joined the Break the Silence Board in 2025, bringing expertise in social enterprise, leadership, and restorative practice.
Gillian Dearie
Trustee
Gillian is a qualified accountant with over 18 years experience, currently working on strategic data initiatives leading a global team in her role within the financial services industry. She is passionate about the support the charity offers in empowering individuals to acknowledge and overcome the emotional and physical aspects of trauma. Supporting individuals to recognise their unique perspectives and to develops ways to leverage that as a skillset is fundamental to her role as a leader.
Joanna Bain
Trustee
Joanna is a lawyer from Aberdeenshire, specialising in public law and government work, having spent the best part of ten years working in policy development and risk in central Whitehall departments, then as the Solicitor to the Scottish Covid-19 Inquiry. Outside of work, she co runs a project in Ireland focused on developing DIY musicians, and enjoys making art and music, volunteering locally and going to gigs whenever she can.
Ruth Maguire
Trustee
Ruth served as a Member of the Scottish Parliament, representing her community with a long‑standing commitment to social justice and equality, from 2016 to 2026. Before that, she served as a councillor for the Irvine West ward on North Ayrshire Council, where she was North Ayrshire Youth Champion, chaired the Violence Against Women Partnership, and sat on the Cabinet as Member for Finance. Earlier in her career, Ruth worked as a Branch Organiser and Women’s Officer for her party. In Parliament, she continued to champion youth rights, human rights, and the prevention of gender‑based violence, serving as Depute Convener of the Standards, Procedures and Public Appointments Committee and co‑convening the Cross‑Party Group on Commercial Sexual Exploitation. Ruth joined the Break the Silence Board in August 2024, contributing valuable experience in advocacy, policy, and community leadership.
Noelle Maye
Trustee
Noelle is a Safeguarding Training Officer for the Church of Scotland. She delivers safeguarding training and deals directly with advising on child and adult protection referrals involving vulnerable people in congregations and Crossreach (one of the largest social care organisations in Scotland). Before working with the Church, Noelle worked as a Learning and Development manager for Children in Scotland, the national network for the children’s sector in Scotland and as a project worker in Craigmillar, Edinburgh working with at-risk young people.
Katie Ralston
Trustee
Katie is a lecturer in business, IT, marketing, and administration at City of Glasgow College, whose experience includes roles with Ayrshire College and NHS Ayrshire & Arran. She holds an MSc in digital education from the University of Edinburgh and is passionate about inspiring learning through digital technologies. Katie joined the Break the Silence board in February 2022, drawn by its trauma‑informed ethos, which aligns closely with her values as an educator, and keen to add her skills to an organisation that supports survivors with dignity, compassion, and evidence‑based practice. She brings strengths in digital marketing, social media strategy, and stakeholder engagement. These skills support effective governance, community connection, and values‑aligned decision‑making within the charity.
