Meet the Team
Our caring team are dedicated to improving and supporting the lives of the young people they care for. Our foundation is built on the values of social justice, connection, and therapeutic excellence. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where courage, empowerment, and inclusivity thrive, giving every child the opportunity to grow in a caring and just environment.
Kerry Shoesmith - Managing Director​
Kerry Shoesmith's career has been deeply rooted in residential childcare since she began in 2000. With a strong foundation in youth and community work, Kerry has dedicated her professional life to enhancing the environments of children's homes. As a manager and later as a director, she supported other home managers and led homes to achieve remarkable outcomes. Notably, during her tenure as a Registered Manager, one of the homes was rated Outstanding by Ofsted for six consecutive years, a rare accomplishment shared by only 22 out of 3,309 homes inspected, at that time.
Driven by a commitment to improve therapeutic practices in children's homes, Kerry explored how Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) could positively impact the care provided. This exploration led to her earning an MSc in CBT and mental health. Kerry has since been actively involved in delivering direct therapeutic interventions to young people in care, in addition to providing clinical supervision for the core teams across various homes. Her work has significantly shaped therapeutic care planning, ensuring that children's homes offer a supportive environment where young people can heal from past trauma. In 2013, Kerry's approach was further enriched after meeting Dr. Peter Jakob, who introduced her to the concepts of Non-Violent Resistance (NVR). She has since integrated NVR throughout her work, profoundly influencing how children's homes operate and to support both the children and their families. Kerry's commitment to residential childcare and her use of innovative, high efficacy therapeutic methods continue to transform children's services, making a lasting impact on the field. Master of Science in CBT & Mental Health, University West of England Non-Violent Resistance Accredited Practitioner & Supervisor, NVR UK & The NVR Association • NLP Practitioner, The Brain People • Certified Reattach Therapist & Trainer, Reattach Academy • Advanced Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, University West of England • NVQ4 in Management, OCR • NVQ4 in the Care of Children & Young People, City & Guilds • NVQ3 in the Care of Children and Young People, Godalming College. • Registered Therapist, BACP • Master V1 Award, City and Guilds • A1 Assessors Award, Godalming College
Dean Olivant - Financial Director
Dean brings a wealth of experience in managing and directing various businesses, including a long-standing tenure in his national construction organisation. With a deep understanding of the ethical responsibilities essential for maintaining economically sound and viable businesses, Dean has also developed a keen insight into the specific needs of public sector projects. His background includes significant work in constructing facilities for both mainstream and SEND schools under Local Authority contracts, demonstrating his ability to collaborate effectively with local government to meet rigorous social and safety standards.
At the heart of Dean’s professional journey is his commitment to the values and ethos of Cherry Lane. He is dedicated to advancing a care model that addresses the needs of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged children, ensuring that they receive the support and opportunities they deserve.​
Lucy Wright - Home Manager - Ebba's House​
I studied law at university, focusing on family law and youth justice, and have since moved away from law to pursue more direct work in supporting young people. My time in residential children’s homes has allowed me to undertake my level 3 diploma and my level 5 in leadership and management. I am also qualified in reattach therapy and am an NVR (Non-Violent Resistance) advanced practitioner. I bring these specialised skills into my work, which align with the ethos of the organisation. I am dedicated to professional development and have high expectations for my team and the young people in our care. My focus is on helping young people reach their potential by creating an environment that promotes growth and achievement. I prioritise accountability and uphold standards of care to ensure every individual receives the support they need. I believe in the importance of investing in young people's futures, and I am committed to guiding them towards success through inspiring leadership and collaborative efforts within the residential home setting and beyond it.
Natalie Hughes - Deputy Manager - Ebba's House
With over 20 years of experience working in residential care, I’m passionate about supporting children and young people to thrive. My journey began in early years settings before moving into therapeutic care, where I’ve combined my management qualifications with specialist training as a ReAttach and accredited NVR practitioner. I believe in authentic, relationship-based care—meeting each young person where they are, supporting their therapeutic needs, and creating space for plenty of fun along the way.​
More Team Members to be added soon...​
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