MEET THE TEAM ~ Carlisle

All staff have enhanced DBS checks and autism awareness training.

Pam (She/Her)

Project Manager

• Youth & Community Diploma

• Food Safety Level 2

• First Aider

Hi, I’m Pam!

I’m a qualified youth and community worker with over 20 years’ experience, and I’m proud to be an Honorary Fellow of the University of Cumbria. I currently manage and direct Sticky Bits Café as well as co-directing Afrikana CIC.

Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to play a part in creating and shaping a number of community initiatives. I was the driving force behind Rainbow Stripes and have also helped develop services and events such as Cumbria Pride, Rainbow Stripes, and most recently the Cumbria Diversity Carnival.

I’m passionate about inclusion and equality, and I’m always looking for new and creative ways to make projects engaging, fun, and accessible for everyone in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

Laurie (She/Her)

Youth and Community Worker

• Level 2 NVQ Youth Work

• First Aider

• Food Safety Level 2

  Hi, I’m Laurie!

  My journey with PiNC began at the Fisher Street Centre, where I started out as a volunteer in the café. That experience really sparked my love for working with people and the community. Before long, I became a Youth and Community Worker and proudly completed my youth work qualification not too long after.

  I now lead our Cooking Club, where I get to share my passion for food and help others build their skills in the kitchen. I’ve also got a bit of a reputation for being very good at baking cakes—something I’m always happy to bring along to share!

  When I’m not at PiNC, you’ll usually find me outdoors—either off on a walk or out on my bike.

Craig (He/Him)

Youth and Community Worker

• Charity Safeguarding Lead

• Level 3 NVQ Youth Work

• First Aider

Hi, I’m Craig!

I have been a youth worker with PiNC for 4 years and I have completed my level 3 NVQ in youth work. I am the safeguarding officer for the charity and have extensive experience of working with young people who are neuro- diverse.

Prior to this I was the manager of a short breaks home for young people with learning needs and worked there for 30 plus years, making lovely memories!

I live with my husband Stephen and 2 dogs (Tara and Archie) and enjoy music, cinema and watching some sports.

I have the social work degree, NVQ 4 in care management and level 3 NVQ in youth work

Stuart (He/Him)

Youth and Community Worker

• Social Media Coordinator

• Level 2 NVQ Youth Work

Hi, I’m Stuart!

I’ve been a qualified youth worker for over two years, and I love bringing creativity, energy, and passion into the work I do with young people. I started with PiNC around 10 years ago whilst at University as a volunteer in the café. I became a member of the managing committee before joining the team as a Youth Worker 3 years ago.

I studied performing arts at university, which gave me experience in costume design and making, and I still enjoy finding imaginative ways to use those skills.

From time to time, I also dip into the world of drag – adding a bit of sparkle and fun to my creative life. 

At home, I live with my partner Matty and our lively household of three cats and dogs, who make sure there’s never a dull moment!

CJ (He/Him)

Youth and Community Worker

• Head First Aider

Hi, I’m CJ!

Originally from Leicestershire but moved to Cumbria in 2020 for university to study Photography. Right after my end of year show I joined the team here at Pride in North Cumbria as a Youth and Community Worker on the Heritage focused Project.

My main skill set is around anything creative from mark making to abstract sculpture or generally a doodle here or there I'll do it! I'm also the first aider for Carlisle centre and any out of centre trips we go on.

Outside of work I'm often in the lakes exploring and hiking a fell or woodlands of Scotland wandering. Absolutely love just being outside so if there's mud, sea, twigs or fresh air around - I'll probably be found there.

Rachel (She/Her)

Youth and Community Worker

• Deputy Safeguarding Lead

• Level 2 Youth Work Practice

Hi, I’m Rachel!

I’ve worked in community and charity roles for over 20 years, always with a passion for equality, inclusion, and helping people feel supported. My journey with PiNC started on the committee more than a decade ago, and in 2023 I joined the team as Administrator before taking on a second role as Youth and Community Worker.

I love working directly with young people—listening to their experiences, supporting them, and creating safe spaces where they can be themselves. A big part of my role is outreach, where I link up with other organisations, deliver training, and help identify gaps in services for LGBTQ+ people. I’m also PiNC’s Deputy Safeguarding Lead.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time in nature, following politics and social justice, and relaxing with films or streaming shows.

Laura (She/Her)

Youth and Community Worker

Hi, I’m Laura!

I joined PiNC in September 2023 as a Community Worker, where I spend my time supporting people seeking asylum and new refugees as they settle into life in Carlisle.

Before joining PiNC, I practised family law here in Carlisle, before taking time out to raise my family. These experiences have really shaped my passion for supporting people and helping them find their place in the community.

Alongside my role at PiNC, I also work with Multicultural Cumbria as their Asylum and Refugee Coordinator.

Volunteering has always been a big part of my life. I’m currently the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team Lead for Cumbria Scouts, and until June 2023 I was District Commissioner (Lead Volunteer) for Scouting across Carlisle.