Dr Fiona Pender is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience working with young people and families. She has worked in education and specialist CYP mental health settings. Fiona is passionate about person-centred care for young people and the importance of supporting them to set and achieve their own goals, regardless of age or level of need. Fiona has led the development, implementation, and evaluation of the Next Step Cards since 2010. Fiona has two children and enjoys paddle boarding in her spare time.
Kate Henderson is an experienced Consultant, Trainer, CBT Therapist, CAT Practitioner, and Clinical Supervisor, specialising in mental health and wellbeing. She brings a compassionate, evidence-driven, and relationship-centred approach to all her work.
For the past three years, Kate has supported the Next Step Cards Senior Leadership Team, enhancing the rollout and adoption of the Next Step Cards toolkit. She brings to the Team a flair for translating theory into practice with creativity, warmth, and clarity - making complex concepts accessible, fostering confident use of the toolkit, and nurturing a culture of reflective learning and growth.
Kate began her career in education before moving into leadership roles across Local Government, the NHS, the Third Sector, and Higher Education. With more than 20 years' experience across children's and adult services, she is dedicated to improving outcomes through compassion, evidence-based practice, and collaborative relationship-building.
Jenny Horner joined the NHS in March 2021, having spent most of her previous working life in chartered accountancy practices, predominantly as a Practice Manager. She has also worked in travel and tour operating where she built up experience of Project Management and client liaison. Jenny is now Next Step Project Lead, overseeing all aspects of the Next Step training and development of the Next Step Programme. Jenny has two adult children and enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as watching live sport - particularly England and her local team, Caldy RUFC, playing rugby.