training

bespoke media, writing & storytelling workshops

I write and deliver media training, writing and storytelling workshops for public and private companies. I will create bespoke sessions to strengthen your organisation's communications offer and staff development. I work with small groups to develop new writing and communications skills or build on  and refresh existing ones by delivering  interactive tutorials and practical sessions, with feedback, ensuring participants can put what they learn into practice, fulfil organisational objectives and contribute to their own professional development. I will also deliver follow up clinics to keep participants on track and confident with their skills.

comms

PR and publications

I have experience delivering both contracted and ad hoc PR for both a major public institution, The University of Manchester, and private firms. I was involved in the inception of The University of Manchester's award-winning Magazine and continue to write regular cover stories and profile pieces for the publication, interviewing high profile figures in the worlds of the arts, sciences, politics and academia, for an international readership. 

I take commissions for internal and external-facing publications and will work with you to tailor your house communications products and PR.

testimonials

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As a communications officer working in the voluntary and public sectors for a number of years, I have attended a variety of training courses. Ordinarily, I feel deflated because the majority of course content is unrelated to my area of work and sets unrealistic expectations. 

Attending the ‘feature writing course’ was so different. It demystified the complexities around drafting good copy. I learnt simple techniques to improve my writing and I was able to implement these into my own work at the first opportunity. I know that colleagues from a variety of disciplines all felt they benefited from the training.  

[Jocelyne E, participant.]

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I commissioned Deborah to deliver a suite of features writing sessions for our teams across the University. Some cited it as one of the best training sessions they'd attended and others found it very practical in terms of applying what they had learned. I would have no hesitation in terms of recommending Deborah.

[Sali Midjek-Conway, Communications and Marketing Leadership Team, The University of Manchester]

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Deborah recently chaired an event I organised as part of the CityCo Manchester's corporate events programme. Deborah was a pleasure to work with and I will definitely be approaching her to chair similar events in the future. Her prep work was spot on and sent over ahead of schedule. She was professional and entertaining on the day of the event. Deborah's writing and presentation skills were the perfect addition to my event. 

[Janine Holt, Corporate Events Manager: CityCo Manchester]