Copy-editing and proofreading services for the publishing sector

I became a freelance copy-editor and proofreader in 2010, utilising my extensive experience of writing and editing within the public sector over the previous 13 years. I decided to re-train as a writer and editor because these were the aspects of my previous jobs that I enjoyed the most.

To this end, I studied and gained an MA in Creative Writing (Distinction). I also undertook the Publishing Training Centre Proofreading by Distance Learning course (Merit) to enable me to transfer my public sector editing skills to the publishing market. I also completed several courses and workshops provided by the Society for Editors and Proofreaders’ (SfEP). I am an ordinary member of the national SfEP, and a member of two local SfEP groups here in Yorkshire.

The positive testimonials I have received to date support the wisdom of this decision to realign my career. On a personal level, providing editorial services gives me enormous professional satisfaction. Basically, I just love doing it, and I think that my enthusiasm is reflected in the high standard of work I deliver to my clients and to individual authors.

Previous work includes:

• Educational materials for primary level education
• Online medical resource (USA): programs on Hematology, Rheumatology, Anesthetics and drugs.
• Reports for national charities
• Articles for academic journals
• Keynote speeches and editorials for a university lecturer
• Report for an ecological survey company
• Non-fiction book to accompany an art exhibition
• Editing fiction (short stories and novels)
• Creating and editing web site content
• Writing and editing a company newsletter
• Press releases and articles
• CVs and personal statements

My specialist areas are health and social care, medicine, English literature, 20th century history, education, social sciences, art and textiles, alternative therapies, cooking, gardening, creative non-fiction and fiction.

My training as an Occupational Therapist covered the common medical areas including anatomy, physiology, psychology, and psychiatry. I have studied and worked in orthopaedics, rheumatology, oncology, neurology (stroke unit), mental health and rehabilitation for older people.

Within health and social care I have particular knowledge of the following service areas: learning disabilities and autism; older people and dementia; physical disability; and mental health services. I have extensive knowledge in the field of strategic planning and commissioning, and of the related contracting processes (commercial and third  sectors).