Meet Our Friendly Team!
Our team are always here to help you - get yourself familiar with the team and see what we are all about. We have a wealth of experience and friendly characters in our team and that'd love to help you on your journey.
Rachael Davies
Managing Director / Responsible Individual
Rachael has previously been a foster parent herself and grew up within a fostering family. Rachael is co-founder of Families First alongside Amanda.
Amanda Davies
Fiancial Director
Amanda was previously a foster parent for over 11 years. Amanda is co-founder of Families First alongside Rachael.
Louise Harkin
Operations Manager
Louise has worked in the field of fostering for many years and has been part of Families First since the beginning. Louise brings a wealth of skills and experience to the team.
Sarah Dillon
Therapist / Psychotherapist
Families First are very fortunate to have the expert support and advice from consultant counsellor, psychotherapist and published author Sarah Dillon.
Amy Beresford
Registered Manager
Amy has worked both in Safeguarding & Fostering and brings a wealth of knowledge to the team.
Gemma Jenkins
Senior Supervising Social worker
Gemma has been a qualified social worker since 2014 and has worked in child protection and fostering since this time.
Dana Murphy
Supervising Social Worker
Dana started with Families First as a student social worker in 2020. She qualified in 2021 and commenced her current role in April 2021.
Ellie Seymour
Senior Supervising Social Worker
Ellie has been a qualified social worker since 2003 working predominantly in the fostering sector.
Sally Buckley
Business Support Administrator
Sally is an experienced administrator providing excellent support accross many essential functions within the agency.
Joanne Whitehouse
Supervising Social Worker
Joanne is skilled and experienced social worker who is child centred and brings many skills to the team.
Laura Ditcher
Therapeutic Family Support Worker
Laura provides support to foster parents and works directly with children and young people.
Alice Nuttall-Basham
Therapeutic Youth Worker
Alice provides therapeutic support and direct work to children and young people within the agency. Alice is trained in DDP & Trauma informed practice.
How Our Foster Care Team Makes a Difference
Our dedicated team is at the heart of everything we do. With years of experience in foster care, social work, and child advocacy, our passionate professionals work tirelessly to ensure every child finds a safe, loving, and supportive home. From our case managers and support workers to our foster care specialists, each team member plays a vital role in changing lives for the better.
Foster care is about more than just providing a roof over a child's head—it's about creating a nurturing environment where children and young people can heal, grow, and thrive. That’s why we carefully match children with foster families and offer continuous guidance to ensure stability and success for everyone involved.
Supporting Foster Parents Every Step of the Way
We understand that becoming a foster parent is a big decision, and that’s why our team is committed to providing exceptional support, training, and guidance. Whether you’re considering fostering for the first time or you’re an experienced carer, we are here to offer expert advice, emotional support, and resources tailored to your needs.
Committed to Positive Outcomes for Children & Young People
Every child deserves a loving, stable home where they can build happy memories and feel secure. At Families First Fostering, we work closely with local authorities, foster families, and community partners to create the best possible outcomes for children in care. Our mission is to give young people the chance to develop their confidence, pursue their dreams, and experience the support of a nurturing family environment. By choosing to foster with us, you’re not just opening your home—you’re changing a life.