Families Branch
“Trauma is in most cases multigenerational. The chain of transmission goes from parent to child, stretching from the past into the future. We pass on to our offspring what we haven’t resolved in ourselves.”
– Dr Gábor Maté
Welcome to the Families Branch
The Network Families Branch is bringing together professionals, local businesses, community groups, and families to explore what it’s really like to raise a family in Plymouth. This is a bold step towards a city where every child and every family feels seen, heard, valued, and supported.
This branch alternates meeting online and in person. The gatherings in the first year are being intentional about reflecting on the question ’What is the experience of being a family in Plymouth really like?’ Our gatherings are warm and welcoming and occasionally involve cake! Want to get involved? Join us below.
Branch Lead: Carly Ellicot
Hello, I am Carly, and a co-lead of the Families branch. My background is in early childhood care and education, and more recently I’ve been focused on supporting young carers, raising awareness and pushing for better support to meet the complex needs of children and families. I was born here in Plymouth and feel a deep connection to the city — I especially love being able to work and live so close to the beautiful coast path. If I’m not at my laptop, you’ll probably find me at a festival, a music venue, or somewhere by the sea with my family.
I’m passionate about creating spaces where families feel seen, heard, and valued — and I’m excited to help shape a more family-friendly Plymouth together.
Branch Lead:
Kirsty Mole
My name is Kirsty, and I am really excited to be working alongside Carly as the New Family Branch lead for the Network. I am the Managing Lead for Lark Family Hubs and have a passion for working with children and families in the Early Help sector. I have experience of working with young people with SEND and want to be apart of making services better for families across the city.
Talk to me about all things food related, Scotland, cats, and music. I feel hugely privileged to be involved with the Network – there is so much to learn, and I want to be able to absorb all the knowledge in this space as it’s a real opportunity.
Become a branch member!
* Note that by becoming a branch member you will also become a member of the
Trauma Network, and therefore may occasionally receive Network wide communications.
Join our movement for change
Our ambition is for Plymouth to be a trauma-informed city. Our independent network is open to anyone connected with Plymouth with a desire to learn about and promote trauma informed ways of being. You too can join our Network and help Plymouth become a safer and kinder place, where the impact of trauma and adversity is both recognised and responded to with sensitivity and compassion.
