About

Fish Quay Consulting & Training is owned and run by Kirsty McDowell. 

I have over 15 years of experience designing and delivering training, managing projects, and working within the voluntary sector.

During that time I have worked for charitable organisations of a range of sizes, from small local community groups to large national charities. My work has taken me into the arts, social care, disability, health, education, and the public sector. This gives me an overview of many parts of the third sector and a knowledge of how organisations work and, more importantly, how they can work best.

I find it extremely rewarding developing and delivering training to groups and individuals of all kinds. The different that can be made in even a short training session is remarkable and I always aim to build confidence as well as skills. I work with many different groups including paid staff, volunteers, trustees, apprentices, and those currently looking for work.

Alongside my professional work I have volunteered in a range of roles, from charity trustee to fundraiser, publicity officer and befriender, giving me a volunteer's perspective and a greater insight into different aspects of the voluntary sector.

My style is based on knowledge and insight – I like to understand and ‘get inside’ my clients' world to see what’s really going on and help you and your organisation to be the best you can be.

I am based in Morpeth in Northumberland after moving here from near North Shields Fish Quay (hence the name 'Fish Quay Consulting & Training'). When I'm not working I enjoy making music with friends and getting out into the Northumberland countryside.

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