Who we are
Our team
Our team is made up of staff from a variety of different backgrounds and disciplines. This multi-disciplinary team (MDT) includes medical doctors, psychological therapists, nursing staff, speech and language therapists, administrative staff and peer supporters. We work collaboratively to provide safe, good quality care for all who seek help from our service. This includes regular staff meetings to share information and make collaborative decisions about the best way to support service users to meet their goals. All discussion is confidential.
Amy Anderson
Call me: Amy
Pronouns: She/her/hers
Job: Team Manager
Professional background: I am a qualified Mental Health Nurse, I did my training at the University of the West of England in Bristol before returning home to Newcastle to practice as a mental health nurse. I have worked with young people in a forensic setting, on a male adult inpatient ward and in the community supporting people in mental health crisis. I have also worked into GP surgeries as a mental health specialist practitioner.
I really enjoy… baking, cooking, spending time with friends and family, particularly going on camping trips and long walks with our cockapoo dog.
Call me: Amy
Pronouns: She/her/hers
Job: Team Manager
Professional background: I am a qualified Mental Health Nurse, I did my training at the University of the West of England in Bristol before returning home to Newcastle to practice as a mental health nurse. I have worked with young people in a forensic setting, on a male adult inpatient ward and in the community supporting people in mental health crisis. I have also worked into GP surgeries as a mental health specialist practitioner.
I really enjoy… baking, cooking, spending time with friends and family, particularly going on camping trips and long walks with our cockapoo dog.
Vikki Ball
Call me: Vikki
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: I qualified as an Adult Nurse in 2005, and initially worked in a general hospital on a busy medical ward. I left to pursue an interest in substance misuse and addiction and have since spent most of my career working in mental health services and have completed various studies to develop my knowledge and skills. I’ve worked in addictions services and more recently in a prison-based personality disorder service. I have a genuine interest in people, I value hearing the stories of those I’m working with and offering support and interventions to enable people to find their voice and to achieve their goals.
I really enjoy… being outdoors, long walks, nice coffee, spending time with family and friends and the odd gin!
Call me: Vikki
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: I qualified as an Adult Nurse in 2005, and initially worked in a general hospital on a busy medical ward. I left to pursue an interest in substance misuse and addiction and have since spent most of my career working in mental health services and have completed various studies to develop my knowledge and skills. I’ve worked in addictions services and more recently in a prison-based personality disorder service. I have a genuine interest in people, I value hearing the stories of those I’m working with and offering support and interventions to enable people to find their voice and to achieve their goals.
I really enjoy… being outdoors, long walks, nice coffee, spending time with family and friends and the odd gin!
Vicki Bennett
Call me: Vicki
Pronouns: she / her / hers
Job: Medical Assistant
Professional background:
I joined the Trust in 2008 as a Medical Staffing Administrator. Throughout my time within CNTW I have worked within various different roles and teams including, Children and Young People’s Services, Safeguarding and Public Protection and Records. Recently, I wanted to return to a patient facing role, supporting a clinical team and further help service users. I am delighted to begin a new path, in a fairly new role for the Trust within the NRGDS team.
I really enjoy… reading (especially romance books), colouring, going for walks, eating out and spending time with my family and friends.
Call me: Vicki
Pronouns: she / her / hers
Job: Medical Assistant
Professional background:
I joined the Trust in 2008 as a Medical Staffing Administrator. Throughout my time within CNTW I have worked within various different roles and teams including, Children and Young People’s Services, Safeguarding and Public Protection and Records. Recently, I wanted to return to a patient facing role, supporting a clinical team and further help service users. I am delighted to begin a new path, in a fairly new role for the Trust within the NRGDS team.
I really enjoy… reading (especially romance books), colouring, going for walks, eating out and spending time with my family and friends.
Dr Ruth Bevan
Call me: Ruth
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor)
Professional background: I trained as a doctor in the North East and specialised in intellectual disability psychiatry and autism, previously working with children and young people. I have worked as a Consultant at NRGDS since 2013. It is a job I feel hugely privileged to do. I am committed to supporting the rights and advocacy of all people, especially those with an intellectual disability and autism.
I really enjoy… time with my family and friends, often involving food, walking with my dog and trying to be creative
Call me: Ruth
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor)
Professional background: I trained as a doctor in the North East and specialised in intellectual disability psychiatry and autism, previously working with children and young people. I have worked as a Consultant at NRGDS since 2013. It is a job I feel hugely privileged to do. I am committed to supporting the rights and advocacy of all people, especially those with an intellectual disability and autism.
I really enjoy… time with my family and friends, often involving food, walking with my dog and trying to be creative
Grace Chugg
Call me: Grace
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Advance Speech and Language Therapist
Professional background: I trained in Plymouth and moved back to Wales following graduation. I worked in a private clinic and then joined the NHS. My aim since starting university was to work in a gender service, and I have been very fortunate to have been given some great opportunities to do this! I previously worked with adults in the community and with a clinical voice caseload.
I really enjoy… baking, book club and embroidery. I love spending time with my family, dog and 2 cats. My favourite films are Someone Great and Encanto. My favourite musician is Masie Peters.
Call me: Grace
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Advance Speech and Language Therapist
Professional background: I trained in Plymouth and moved back to Wales following graduation. I worked in a private clinic and then joined the NHS. My aim since starting university was to work in a gender service, and I have been very fortunate to have been given some great opportunities to do this! I previously worked with adults in the community and with a clinical voice caseload.
I really enjoy… baking, book club and embroidery. I love spending time with my family, dog and 2 cats. My favourite films are Someone Great and Encanto. My favourite musician is Masie Peters.
Vicki Bennett
Call me: Vicki
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Medical Assistant
Professional background:I joined the Trust in 2008 as a Medical Staffing Administrator. Throughout my time within CNTW I have worked within various different roles and teams including, Children and Young People’s Services, Safeguarding and Public Protection and Records. Recently, I wanted to return to a patient facing role, supporting a clinical team and further help service users. I am delighted to begin a new path, in a fairly new role for the Trust within the NRGDS team.
I really enjoy… reading (especially romance books), colouring, going for walks, eating out and spending time with my family and friends.
Call me: Vicki
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Medical Assistant
Professional background:I joined the Trust in 2008 as a Medical Staffing Administrator. Throughout my time within CNTW I have worked within various different roles and teams including, Children and Young People’s Services, Safeguarding and Public Protection and Records. Recently, I wanted to return to a patient facing role, supporting a clinical team and further help service users. I am delighted to begin a new path, in a fairly new role for the Trust within the NRGDS team.
I really enjoy… reading (especially romance books), colouring, going for walks, eating out and spending time with my family and friends.
Kieran Cronesberry
Call me: Kie
Pronouns: he/him/his and they/them/theirs
Job: Assistant Psychologist
Professional background: Before joining the team at NRGDS I worked as an assistant psychologist on inpatient acute ward settings, which involved working with clients to improve their psychological coping skills, and resilience to get them back into the community safely. Prior to this I worked in higher education helping students with mental health difficulties and I was also a youth group leader for an LGBTQ+ charity for 11-18 year olds.
I really enjoy… working with the community and finding new ways to get involved with the community. In my free time I enjoy reading (especially Stephen King), playing video games, cooking good food, and attending shows (either comedy, drag, or music!).
Call me: Kie
Pronouns: he/him/his and they/them/theirs
Job: Assistant Psychologist
Professional background: Before joining the team at NRGDS I worked as an assistant psychologist on inpatient acute ward settings, which involved working with clients to improve their psychological coping skills, and resilience to get them back into the community safely. Prior to this I worked in higher education helping students with mental health difficulties and I was also a youth group leader for an LGBTQ+ charity for 11-18 year olds.
I really enjoy… working with the community and finding new ways to get involved with the community. In my free time I enjoy reading (especially Stephen King), playing video games, cooking good food, and attending shows (either comedy, drag, or music!).
Matthew Davies
Call me: Matt
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Senior Peer Supporter
Professional background: I have had three distinct careers – the first in managing overseas relief and development programmes, mainly for Oxfam; the second as an adult nurse, mainly working in Cardio-thoracic intensive care; and the third, as a peer supporter with NRGDS. Since the Peer Support Service was set up in April 2021, we have been working hard to establish support groups, spend 1-2-1 time with people and work with our clients on how best we can help them. It has been hard work, but really rewarding. I enjoy the variety and the constant challenges. The biggest reward has been meeting lots of wonderful people from our community, hearing their stories and bringing them together to support each other.
I really enjoy… chocolate, dogs, films.
Call me: Matt
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Senior Peer Supporter
Professional background: I have had three distinct careers – the first in managing overseas relief and development programmes, mainly for Oxfam; the second as an adult nurse, mainly working in Cardio-thoracic intensive care; and the third, as a peer supporter with NRGDS. Since the Peer Support Service was set up in April 2021, we have been working hard to establish support groups, spend 1-2-1 time with people and work with our clients on how best we can help them. It has been hard work, but really rewarding. I enjoy the variety and the constant challenges. The biggest reward has been meeting lots of wonderful people from our community, hearing their stories and bringing them together to support each other.
I really enjoy… chocolate, dogs, films.
Dr Ruth Evans
Call me: Ruth
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: GP specialist in gender dysphoria
Professional background: Back in 1983, I came down from near Edinburgh to start medical school in Newcastle and discovered I had travelled ‘north’. There is so much to enjoy here, that I never left and trained as a GP in this region. For most of my career I have been involved in ‘clinical leadership’, with the final few years in NHS North Tyneside CCG (Clinical Commissioning Group) as medical director.
Call me: Ruth
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: GP specialist in gender dysphoria
Professional background: Back in 1983, I came down from near Edinburgh to start medical school in Newcastle and discovered I had travelled ‘north’. There is so much to enjoy here, that I never left and trained as a GP in this region. For most of my career I have been involved in ‘clinical leadership’, with the final few years in NHS North Tyneside CCG (Clinical Commissioning Group) as medical director.
After 25 years at Village Green Surgery in Wallsend, I felt ready for a change and applied for a GP role at NRGDS (Northern Region Gender Dysphoria Service). Now I am learning new things every day.
I really enjoy time with family and friends, wine, pizza and my crazy collie dog.
Harriet Fleetwood
Call me: Harriet
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Assistant Psychologist
Professional background: I am an undergraduate psychology student currently on placement at NRGDS. Alongside this I am also a researcher, my current research interests are EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion), intolerance of uncertainty and the psychological effects of climate change messages.
I really enjoy… baking and cooking, learning about fashion history, watching musicals, travelling, reading and being creative.
Call me: Harriet
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Assistant Psychologist
Professional background: I am an undergraduate psychology student currently on placement at NRGDS. Alongside this I am also a researcher, my current research interests are EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion), intolerance of uncertainty and the psychological effects of climate change messages.
I really enjoy… baking and cooking, learning about fashion history, watching musicals, travelling, reading and being creative.
Helen Fyfe
Call me: Helen
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: I qualified as a Registered Nurse in Adult Nursing in 1997. I have worked in urology nursing at the Freeman Hospital and in St Oswald’s hospice inpatient unit. I then worked as a Health Visitor for 11 years. My last job was in a GP surgery where I was a Practice Nurse performing a wide range of duties and specialising in Diabetes. I have been a Nurse for 25 years and have really loved all the roles I have worked in. Throughout my career I have taken special interest in gender dysphoria and I am delighted to be working with the Gender Dysphoria team.
I really enjoy… baking and decorating cakes, crafts and sewing, travelling and exploring new places. My first job after leaving school was in a music shop in Newcastle, I love music, especially rock music. I also really enjoy singing and have recently joined a singing group.
Call me: Helen
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: I qualified as a Registered Nurse in Adult Nursing in 1997. I have worked in urology nursing at the Freeman Hospital and in St Oswald’s hospice inpatient unit. I then worked as a Health Visitor for 11 years. My last job was in a GP surgery where I was a Practice Nurse performing a wide range of duties and specialising in Diabetes. I have been a Nurse for 25 years and have really loved all the roles I have worked in. Throughout my career I have taken special interest in gender dysphoria and I am delighted to be working with the Gender Dysphoria team.
I really enjoy… baking and decorating cakes, crafts and sewing, travelling and exploring new places. My first job after leaving school was in a music shop in Newcastle, I love music, especially rock music. I also really enjoy singing and have recently joined a singing group.
Dr Helen Greener
Call me: Helen
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor) and Clinical Lead
Professional background: I moved to the North East to undertake higher training in Old Age Psychiatry in 2006, after working in Glasgow and the Midlands. I was lucky enough to encounter the then new service for gender dysphoria, which was based in Sunderland at the time. I discovered a passion for working with trans and non-binary people; meeting people from different backgrounds and learning new things from them is one of the best bits of my job. It is also a pleasure to work in a team of compassionate, dedicated people. I enjoy working across barriers and bringing diverse people together, to improve services for trans people.
I really enjoy… cooking, reading (especially science fiction), walking, travel and gin tasting. Watching a certain Australian soap opera is a (not so) secret guilty pleasure.
Call me: Helen
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor) and Clinical Lead
Professional background: I moved to the North East to undertake higher training in Old Age Psychiatry in 2006, after working in Glasgow and the Midlands. I was lucky enough to encounter the then new service for gender dysphoria, which was based in Sunderland at the time. I discovered a passion for working with trans and non-binary people; meeting people from different backgrounds and learning new things from them is one of the best bits of my job. It is also a pleasure to work in a team of compassionate, dedicated people. I enjoy working across barriers and bringing diverse people together, to improve services for trans people.
I really enjoy… cooking, reading (especially science fiction), walking, travel and gin tasting. Watching a certain Australian soap opera is a (not so) secret guilty pleasure.
Dr Rachael Hall
Call me: Rachael
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (medical doctor)
Professional background: I finished medical school training in 2008 and went on to specialise in psychiatry. I became a Consultant Psychiatrist in 2016 and worked predominantly in acute adult services including inpatient and crisis care. Alongside this, I also had an Associate Medical Director role which meant that I got involved in lots of leadership and service improvement projects across urgent care.
During my time in psychiatry, I always enjoyed working with trans service users and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. When a job came up in NRGDS I jumped at the chance to develop experience in this area and hopefully make a difference!
I really enjoy… nature, animals of all shapes and sizes (except spiders), travel, queer culture and getting in the North Sea in all temperatures!!
Call me: Rachael
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (medical doctor)
Professional background: I finished medical school training in 2008 and went on to specialise in psychiatry. I became a Consultant Psychiatrist in 2016 and worked predominantly in acute adult services including inpatient and crisis care. Alongside this, I also had an Associate Medical Director role which meant that I got involved in lots of leadership and service improvement projects across urgent care.
During my time in psychiatry, I always enjoyed working with trans service users and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. When a job came up in NRGDS I jumped at the chance to develop experience in this area and hopefully make a difference!
I really enjoy… nature, animals of all shapes and sizes (except spiders), travel, queer culture and getting in the North Sea in all temperatures!!
Dr Martha Hawker
Call me: Martha
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Psychiatry Core Trainee/Trust Grade in Gender Dysphoria
Professional background: I trained as a doctor in Cambridge and graduated in 2017. Whilst I was at medical school, one of my best friends came out as transgender which made me want to learn more about gender dysphoria. I realised that working in gender dysphoria was the career for me! I then moved to Manchester for foundation training and then to the North East for psychiatry training. I am currently training to become a psychiatrist. I train four days a week and work in the gender dysphoria service one day a week alongside my psychiatry training. When I finish my psychiatry training, I plan to work full time in gender dysphoria. I have a particular interest in medical education and teach medical students and PA students at Newcastle and Sunderland Universities about LGBT+ awareness and transgender health.
I really enjoy… playing Dungeons and Dragons, playing board games, sewing, knitting and spending time with friends and family and our two cats (Stre’k and Umbra).
Call me: Martha
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Psychiatry Core Trainee/Trust Grade in Gender Dysphoria
Professional background: I trained as a doctor in Cambridge and graduated in 2017. Whilst I was at medical school, one of my best friends came out as transgender which made me want to learn more about gender dysphoria. I realised that working in gender dysphoria was the career for me! I then moved to Manchester for foundation training and then to the North East for psychiatry training. I am currently training to become a psychiatrist. I train four days a week and work in the gender dysphoria service one day a week alongside my psychiatry training. When I finish my psychiatry training, I plan to work full time in gender dysphoria. I have a particular interest in medical education and teach medical students and PA students at Newcastle and Sunderland Universities about LGBT+ awareness and transgender health.
I really enjoy… playing Dungeons and Dragons, playing board games, sewing, knitting and spending time with friends and family and our two cats (Stre’k and Umbra).
Sarah Hay
Call me: Sarah
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Speech and Language Therapist
Professional background: Before I joined the NRGDS Team I worked for many years in an Outpatient Hospital in Glasgow where I specialised in Voice, Trans and Gender Diverse Voice, Dysfluency and Upper Airways Disorders. I love empowering clients with the tools and knowledge to understand and modify their voice. I use a counselling approach in my therapy and have a particular interest in Autism and ADHD.
I really enjoy… being outdoors. I love running, hillwalking and wild swimming. I’m also addicted to health and wellbeing podcasts!
Call me: Sarah
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Speech and Language Therapist
Professional background: Before I joined the NRGDS Team I worked for many years in an Outpatient Hospital in Glasgow where I specialised in Voice, Trans and Gender Diverse Voice, Dysfluency and Upper Airways Disorders. I love empowering clients with the tools and knowledge to understand and modify their voice. I use a counselling approach in my therapy and have a particular interest in Autism and ADHD.
I really enjoy… being outdoors. I love running, hillwalking and wild swimming. I’m also addicted to health and wellbeing podcasts!
Dr Renske Herrema
Call me: Renske
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Senior Clinical Psychologist
Professional background: I previously worked in a Children and Young People’s Service prior to joining NRGDS. I worked with young people with Autism and ADHD in that service and prior to my Psychology training. I have always enjoyed working with neurodivergent individuals and I am passionate about ensuring individuals have a safe space to talk about their experiences, things that are difficult and I love learning more about them along the way. I am also currently working towards accreditation as a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) practitioner.
I really enjoy… being outdoors, travelling and seeing new places, any water sports (recently it’s SUP and open water swimming), and spending time with friends, family and my cat Ernie.
Call me: Renske
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Senior Clinical Psychologist
Professional background: I previously worked in a Children and Young People’s Service prior to joining NRGDS. I worked with young people with Autism and ADHD in that service and prior to my Psychology training. I have always enjoyed working with neurodivergent individuals and I am passionate about ensuring individuals have a safe space to talk about their experiences, things that are difficult and I love learning more about them along the way. I am also currently working towards accreditation as a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) practitioner.
I really enjoy… being outdoors, travelling and seeing new places, any water sports (recently it’s SUP and open water swimming), and spending time with friends, family and my cat Ernie.
Beverley Howe
Call me: Beverley
Pronouns: she/her
Job: Senior Peer Supporter
Professional background: Trained and work as a recovery worker for third sector organisations
I really enjoy… listening to music as well as seeing live band at various festivals. Reading and watching sci-fi
Call me: Beverley
Pronouns: she/her
Job: Senior Peer Supporter
Professional background: Trained and work as a recovery worker for third sector organisations
I really enjoy… listening to music as well as seeing live band at various festivals. Reading and watching sci-fi
Christine Johnston
Call me: Christine
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Administration Officer
Professional background: I started working in NRGDS in April 2016. I have previously worked in administration roles. I value my role as an admin officer as it gives me the opportunity to work with a diverse range of people.
I really enjoy… spending time with my family and friends. I have a Jack Russell who I like taking for walks. I enjoy going to see live bands.
Call me: Christine
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Administration Officer
Professional background: I started working in NRGDS in April 2016. I have previously worked in administration roles. I value my role as an admin officer as it gives me the opportunity to work with a diverse range of people.
I really enjoy… spending time with my family and friends. I have a Jack Russell who I like taking for walks. I enjoy going to see live bands.
Dr Rachel Jones
Call me: Rachel
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: GP Specialist in Gender Dysphoria
Professional background: I have done all my medical training in the North East and qualified as a GP in 2015. I have recently joined the service and I have always felt passionate about improving healthcare for trans patients particularly in primary care and would like to develop a special interest in helping support and treat people with Gender Dysphoria so am looking forward to getting stuck in and learning a lot! I also enjoy medical education and help with teaching medical students and junior doctors.
Call me: Rachel
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: GP Specialist in Gender Dysphoria
Professional background: I have done all my medical training in the North East and qualified as a GP in 2015. I have recently joined the service and I have always felt passionate about improving healthcare for trans patients particularly in primary care and would like to develop a special interest in helping support and treat people with Gender Dysphoria so am looking forward to getting stuck in and learning a lot! I also enjoy medical education and help with teaching medical students and junior doctors.
I really enjoy… baking, exploring the great outdoors, family day trips and a good glass of Pinot Noir! I also help foster hedgehogs in the winter months and have a crazy golden retriever called Ted.
Nazlin Kurji-Smith
Call me: Naz
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Lead Speech and Language Therapist
Professional background: Before joining NRGDS, I worked in adult acute care and in voice clinics.
I really enjoy… exploring voice with people and having fun with our voices. Outside work, I enjoy walking the dog, kayaking, meeting with friends and family, drinking craft beer and eating other people’s baked goods! I’m also partial to a box set binge of terrible TV.
Call me: Naz
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Lead Speech and Language Therapist
Professional background: Before joining NRGDS, I worked in adult acute care and in voice clinics.
I really enjoy… exploring voice with people and having fun with our voices. Outside work, I enjoy walking the dog, kayaking, meeting with friends and family, drinking craft beer and eating other people’s baked goods! I’m also partial to a box set binge of terrible TV.
Dr Anna Laws
Call me: Anna
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Professional background: Before I joined the team at the NRGDS, in 2016, I worked in an adolescent forensic service, adult psychotherapy and a psychology team for people with interpersonal difficulties and complex trauma. I also trained as a psychosexual therapist.
I really enjoy… opportunities to meet with the wider trans and non-binary community. I’m passionate about teaching and training to improve healthcare for our clients. In my free time I enjoy being creative in lots of different ways, wearing trousers and sitting in a pile of cats.
Call me: Anna
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Professional background: Before I joined the team at the NRGDS, in 2016, I worked in an adolescent forensic service, adult psychotherapy and a psychology team for people with interpersonal difficulties and complex trauma. I also trained as a psychosexual therapist.
I really enjoy… opportunities to meet with the wider trans and non-binary community. I’m passionate about teaching and training to improve healthcare for our clients. In my free time I enjoy being creative in lots of different ways, wearing trousers and sitting in a pile of cats.
Dr Nicola Mitcheson
Call me: Nicola
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor)
Professional background: Prior to coming to NRGDS I worked as a forensic psychiatrist for many years in various settings, including prisons, inpatient, and community. Much of this involved working with people to help them improve their mental health and regain or develop new skills.
I really enjoy… working in NRGDS which gives me the chance to meet people who all have different experiences and perspectives, and from whom I am constantly learning. I am passionate about promoting better health and wellbeing and providing the best individualised care possible. I feel fortunate to work with colleagues who are similarly very passionate about their work. In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being outdoors and gardening, especially growing things to eat.
Call me: Nicola
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor)
Professional background: Prior to coming to NRGDS I worked as a forensic psychiatrist for many years in various settings, including prisons, inpatient, and community. Much of this involved working with people to help them improve their mental health and regain or develop new skills.
I really enjoy… working in NRGDS which gives me the chance to meet people who all have different experiences and perspectives, and from whom I am constantly learning. I am passionate about promoting better health and wellbeing and providing the best individualised care possible. I feel fortunate to work with colleagues who are similarly very passionate about their work. In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being outdoors and gardening, especially growing things to eat.
Simon Moran
Call me: Simon
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: I’m a qualified Mental Health Nurse. Prior to starting at NRGDS, I have worked in inpatient and community settings and in an education setting. I really value and take pride in understanding the stories of those that I’m working with, to help ensure that care and treatment is individualised and meaningful.
I really enjoy… spending time with friends and family, coffee and chats, reading and movies.
Call me: Simon
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: I’m a qualified Mental Health Nurse. Prior to starting at NRGDS, I have worked in inpatient and community settings and in an education setting. I really value and take pride in understanding the stories of those that I’m working with, to help ensure that care and treatment is individualised and meaningful.
I really enjoy… spending time with friends and family, coffee and chats, reading and movies.
Charles Owens
Call me: Charlie
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Admin
Professional background: I worked in retail for a big technology company in sales for a while before switching my focus to teaching and development in equality & diversity within the company. In the diversity team I hosted seminars and lectures to international stores, raising awareness and improving policies for LGBT+ staff and customers. I started working with NRGDS in early 2023 and love working with the team and the trans community.
I really enjoy… outside of work I love doing lots of hobbies from crafts like rug tufting to outdoor sports like kayaking. Long walks with my dog and friends or a little getaway to a lodge is my ideal weekend.
Call me: Charlie
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Admin
Professional background: I worked in retail for a big technology company in sales for a while before switching my focus to teaching and development in equality & diversity within the company. In the diversity team I hosted seminars and lectures to international stores, raising awareness and improving policies for LGBT+ staff and customers. I started working with NRGDS in early 2023 and love working with the team and the trans community.
I really enjoy… outside of work I love doing lots of hobbies from crafts like rug tufting to outdoor sports like kayaking. Long walks with my dog and friends or a little getaway to a lodge is my ideal weekend.
Pawel Plottke
Call me: Pav
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Administration Assistant
Professional background: Before joining this wonderful service, I have enjoyed working as a Team Manager in a restaurant chain and studied architecture at Northumbria University. Now, aspiring to progress in my new role and become a valuable member of the Gender Dysphoria Team, whilst providing an exceptional service to all our patients. It’s very important for me to work in a setting where we can change people’s lives and raise the awareness of this crucial service.
I really enjoy… playing and watching football, travelling to new destinations and learning about different cultures, and cooking delicious meals for the important people in my life! My specialty is a crunchy peanut chicken satay.
Call me: Pav
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Administration Assistant
Professional background: Before joining this wonderful service, I have enjoyed working as a Team Manager in a restaurant chain and studied architecture at Northumbria University. Now, aspiring to progress in my new role and become a valuable member of the Gender Dysphoria Team, whilst providing an exceptional service to all our patients. It’s very important for me to work in a setting where we can change people’s lives and raise the awareness of this crucial service.
I really enjoy… playing and watching football, travelling to new destinations and learning about different cultures, and cooking delicious meals for the important people in my life! My specialty is a crunchy peanut chicken satay.
Deborah Quinn
Call me: Deborah
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: I began my nursing career in 2007 when I qualified as a Learning Disabilities nurse at Northumbria University. Before joining NRGDS I worked as a learning disabilities nurse in an adult inpatient service before joining an adolescent forensic service for five years. I then worked within a community setting with children and young people for six years. I will always strive to provide the best individualised care I can for every person that I work with. I value my role as a nurse and the opportunity to be able to work with a diverse range of people.
I really enjoy… spending time with my family, my friends and my dog (a mischievous miniature schnauzer). I also enjoy going to Indie gigs and binging on Netflix box sets. Favourite band: The Charlatans. Favourite film: Labyrinth. Favourite actor: Bette Davis.
Call me: Deborah
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: I began my nursing career in 2007 when I qualified as a Learning Disabilities nurse at Northumbria University. Before joining NRGDS I worked as a learning disabilities nurse in an adult inpatient service before joining an adolescent forensic service for five years. I then worked within a community setting with children and young people for six years. I will always strive to provide the best individualised care I can for every person that I work with. I value my role as a nurse and the opportunity to be able to work with a diverse range of people.
I really enjoy… spending time with my family, my friends and my dog (a mischievous miniature schnauzer). I also enjoy going to Indie gigs and binging on Netflix box sets. Favourite band: The Charlatans. Favourite film: Labyrinth. Favourite actor: Bette Davis.
Dr Richard Quinton
Call me: Richard
Pronouns: he/him etc
Job: Consultant Endocrinologist
Professional background: I qualified in Medicine from Cambridge University; trained in Internal Medicine at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London and Erasmus University Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, and then in Endocrinology at UCL-Middlesex Hospitals, London.
I moved to the North East in 1999 to take up my present posts with Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals and Newcastle University in 1999.
During my higher training, I developed a major interest in Reproductive Endocrinology and sex hormones, which provided a really helpful entry point for me into Gender Medicine in around 2008.
I really enjoy… travelling with my family
Call me: Richard
Pronouns: he/him etc
Job: Consultant Endocrinologist
Professional background: I qualified in Medicine from Cambridge University; trained in Internal Medicine at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London and Erasmus University Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, and then in Endocrinology at UCL-Middlesex Hospitals, London.
I moved to the North East in 1999 to take up my present posts with Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals and Newcastle University in 1999.
During my higher training, I developed a major interest in Reproductive Endocrinology and sex hormones, which provided a really helpful entry point for me into Gender Medicine in around 2008.
I really enjoy… travelling with my family
John Reilly-Dixon
Call me: John
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Psychological Therapist
Professional background: I qualified as a relationship therapist in 2006 and split my time between a clinical and academic role. From 20013 I have worked in the NHS as psychosexual therapist before joining NRGDS. Most of my professional life has been in roles that have been providing psychological therapy, it is something I continue to love and I value understanding people’s unique experiences and perspectives on the world.
I really enjoy… in my spare time I enjoy the outdoors and walking my two sausage dogs as well as reading dystopian sci-fi novels.
Call me: John
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Psychological Therapist
Professional background: I qualified as a relationship therapist in 2006 and split my time between a clinical and academic role. From 20013 I have worked in the NHS as psychosexual therapist before joining NRGDS. Most of my professional life has been in roles that have been providing psychological therapy, it is something I continue to love and I value understanding people’s unique experiences and perspectives on the world.
I really enjoy… in my spare time I enjoy the outdoors and walking my two sausage dogs as well as reading dystopian sci-fi novels.
River August Rowan
Call me: River August, Riv, Gus
Pronouns: they/them/theirs
Job: Senior Peer Supporter
Professional background: I work as a peer supporter for NRGDS and as a dental nurse in Newcastle. I enjoy a nice mix of work to keep me on my toes! The best part of my job is getting to meet all the people who use our service, and learning new things as the service grows.
I really enjoy… Nature walking, hiking, and reading books (thrillers and fantasy!). I also enjoy DIY and renovation. I’m into loads of different types of music, and I enjoy travelling around the country to see bands of all genres!
Favourite author: Stephen King. Favourite band: Big Red Machine and Khruangbin (can’t only pick one!)
Call me: River August, Riv, Gus
Pronouns: they/them/theirs
Job: Senior Peer Supporter
Professional background: I work as a peer supporter for NRGDS and as a dental nurse in Newcastle. I enjoy a nice mix of work to keep me on my toes! The best part of my job is getting to meet all the people who use our service, and learning new things as the service grows.
I really enjoy… Nature walking, hiking, and reading books (thrillers and fantasy!). I also enjoy DIY and renovation. I’m into loads of different types of music, and I enjoy travelling around the country to see bands of all genres!
Favourite author: Stephen King. Favourite band: Big Red Machine and Khruangbin (can’t only pick one!)
Dr Michael Shaw
Call me: Mike
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor)
Professional background: I trained as a doctor in Yorkshire and then undertook specialist training in Psychiatry in Merseyside before moving to Northumberland in 2000. Before joining the team at NRGDS I worked with young adults experiencing a first episode of severe mental illness, helping them recover and achieve their full potential. I am committed to social justice and equality. I aim to express these values in my own practice and by influencing health services and health policy. I am active within the British Medical Association, the doctors’ Trade Union.
I really enjoy… Being outside walking, cycling or gardening. Viewing and creating art, particularly painting.
Favourite author: Iain M Banks. Favourite band: Led Zeppelin. Favourite film: The Blues Brothers.
Call me: Mike
Pronouns: he/him/his
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor)
Professional background: I trained as a doctor in Yorkshire and then undertook specialist training in Psychiatry in Merseyside before moving to Northumberland in 2000. Before joining the team at NRGDS I worked with young adults experiencing a first episode of severe mental illness, helping them recover and achieve their full potential. I am committed to social justice and equality. I aim to express these values in my own practice and by influencing health services and health policy. I am active within the British Medical Association, the doctors’ Trade Union.
I really enjoy… Being outside walking, cycling or gardening. Viewing and creating art, particularly painting.
Favourite author: Iain M Banks. Favourite band: Led Zeppelin. Favourite film: The Blues Brothers.
Mary Soulsby
Call me: Mary
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: Before I joined the team at the NRGDS I worked in an adolescent forensic inpatient service and then as part of an Adult Community Mental Health Team. I have completed further training to allow me to deliver advice to GP’s with regards to hormone therapy.
I really enjoy… working with our client group and believe that I am an effective advocate for all trans and non-binary people in the wider community. I’m passionate improving healthcare for our clients. In my free time I enjoy watching movies and TV shows. I also like to attend music events especially rock music.
Call me: Mary
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Specialist Nurse
Professional background: Before I joined the team at the NRGDS I worked in an adolescent forensic inpatient service and then as part of an Adult Community Mental Health Team. I have completed further training to allow me to deliver advice to GP’s with regards to hormone therapy.
I really enjoy… working with our client group and believe that I am an effective advocate for all trans and non-binary people in the wider community. I’m passionate improving healthcare for our clients. In my free time I enjoy watching movies and TV shows. I also like to attend music events especially rock music.
Dr Victoria Thomas
Call me: Victoria
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria
Professional background: I’ve always lived and worked in the North East and before joining NRGDS I worked as a child and adolescent psychiatrist within the children and young people’s service – working in inpatient, community and eating disorders teams. I’ve also had an interest in mental health law and medical education. I was looking for a new challenge and was excited to be offered my post within NRGDS.
I really enjoy… spending time with my family, dog walks, trips to Scotland, running, camping, pizza and ice cream.
Call me: Victoria
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria
Professional background: I’ve always lived and worked in the North East and before joining NRGDS I worked as a child and adolescent psychiatrist within the children and young people’s service – working in inpatient, community and eating disorders teams. I’ve also had an interest in mental health law and medical education. I was looking for a new challenge and was excited to be offered my post within NRGDS.
I really enjoy… spending time with my family, dog walks, trips to Scotland, running, camping, pizza and ice cream.
Rachel Watson
Call me: Rachel
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Pathway Co-ordinator
Professional background: I joined the NRGDS team in January 2016 as an Admin Assistant. Prior to that I worked in admin for a couple of training organisations. I enjoy making sure the systems we use are up to date and helping the team to get the information they need to improve the service we provide for patients. I value the admin team that I am a part of as everyone is extremely hard working to keep up with the heavy workload.I have a mind for data and love organising myself using spreadsheets. I would say I’m a bit of a nerd!
I really enjoy… DIY and home improvements, spending time with my family and dog and visiting new places.
Call me: Rachel
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Pathway Co-ordinator
Professional background: I joined the NRGDS team in January 2016 as an Admin Assistant. Prior to that I worked in admin for a couple of training organisations. I enjoy making sure the systems we use are up to date and helping the team to get the information they need to improve the service we provide for patients. I value the admin team that I am a part of as everyone is extremely hard working to keep up with the heavy workload.I have a mind for data and love organising myself using spreadsheets. I would say I’m a bit of a nerd!
I really enjoy… DIY and home improvements, spending time with my family and dog and visiting new places.
Dr Ewa Young
Call me: Ewa
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor)
Professional background: I completed my postgraduate training in psychiatry in the North East of England and worked as a Consultant Psychiatrist initially in the Crisis Team, Rehabilitation Team and lately in a Community Treatment Team. I enjoy being a member of the Gender Dysphoria Team and find my job rewarding. I am also a qualified Personal Trainer and a Mat Pilates Instructor and believe in a holistic approach to health. I am committed to providing a high quality care.
I really enjoy… good holidays, experimenting in the kitchen and exercise.
Call me: Ewa
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Job: Consultant in Gender Dysphoria (Medical Doctor)
Professional background: I completed my postgraduate training in psychiatry in the North East of England and worked as a Consultant Psychiatrist initially in the Crisis Team, Rehabilitation Team and lately in a Community Treatment Team. I enjoy being a member of the Gender Dysphoria Team and find my job rewarding. I am also a qualified Personal Trainer and a Mat Pilates Instructor and believe in a holistic approach to health. I am committed to providing a high quality care.
I really enjoy… good holidays, experimenting in the kitchen and exercise.
Our vision and values
The Northern Region Gender Dysphoria Service is hosted by Cumbria, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust. The Trust vision and values are:
Our vision
To be a leader in the delivery of high quality care and a champion for those we serve.
Our values
Caring and compassionate
- Put ourselves in other people’s shoes
- Listen and offer hope
- Focus on recovery
- Be approachable
- Be sensitive and considerate
- Be helpful
- Go the extra mile
Respectful
- Value the skill and contribution of others
- Give respect to all people
- Respect and embrace difference
- Encourage innovation and be open to new ideas
- Work together and value our partners
Honest and transparent
- Have no secrets
- Be open and truthful
- Accept what is wrong and strive to put it right
- Share information
- Be accountable for our actions
The staff team at the Northern Region Gender Dysphoria Service have embedded these within the service and have identified our values:
Service users
We aim to work collaboratively and fairly with service users to enable them to be their authentic selves, recognising that each individual is unique.
Our team
We aim to support each other to develop as individuals through positive challenge and open reflection, maintaining our focus on our service users.
Working with others
We aim to create gender affirmative change with passion, taking responsibility for seeking out diversity and encouraging authenticity in all areas of our working lives.