Meet the team

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Gemma Nicolson
Chief Executive Officer

I proudly joined Families First as CEO in January 2025. I feel incredibly fortunate to join such a committed and passionate (not to mention fun!) team of staff and volunteers who, together with the children, young people and families we are here to serve, inspire me each and every day. Valuing the opportunity for connection and learning, I look forward to working with the team, our Board of Trustees, families, partners, funders and supporters to ensure the continuation, development and future of our much needed and highly regarded services in North East Fife.

Email me: ceo@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

Alison Falls
Services Manager

I love Families First so much that I’ve been a part of the team since 2010, making me the longest serving member of staff (although not the oldest!) Being St Andrews born and bred, I love being able to give back to the local community; it helps that my work is always loads of fun too!

Email me: servicesmanager@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

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Kathryn Henderson
Young People’s Service Youth Worker

I have been a Youth Worker at Families First since 2020 and work alongside Alison in the Young Peoples Service. I can often be seen out and about with the young people in the community! I was a volunteer with Families First for four years before officially joining the team. I cannot wait to see what my future at Families First looks like!

 Email me: youthworker@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

Jan Clarke
Befriending Coordinator

I have been the Befriending Coordinator at Families First since 2016, after many years working in the care sector.  I love working with our team of dedicated and committed volunteers. They help to make Families First the success it is today. I’m inspired by everyone I meet through my work and feel honoured to be able to serve the community.

Email me: befriending@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

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Morven Craig
Befriending Youth Worker

I started working with Families First as a befriending volunteer in 2021 while studying at the University of St Andrews. I enjoyed my time so much that I’ve refused to leave! Since 2023 I’ve joined the team as the befriending youth worker. You’ll find me at all our befriending sessions, many of which we spend exploring the beautiful St Andrews surroundings! It’s a pleasure working with all our amazing families, children and volunteer befrienders .

Email me: bfyw@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

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Alexis Rinaldy
Family Support Coordinator

I have been the Family Support Coordinator at Families First since 2019. As a mum of two I understand the challenges parenting can bring, making me passionate about my post here at Families First. I offer practical and emotional support to parents and carers in a number of ways. What I love about my role is that every day is different.

Email me: familysupport@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

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Neryl Malcomson
Finance Manager

I’m the Finance Manager at Families First.  I deal with the day-to-day financial administration, work closely with the CEO on funding applications and provide financial reports to the Trustees.  I love being part of the Families First team as we are all driven by the desire to make a difference in the lives of the children and families we work with.

Email me: finance@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

Sarah Martin
Office Manager

I joined Families First in 2012 as an admin volunteer and officially became a member of staff shortly thereafter. I work with the team to ensure the smooth running of Families First business. I have a strong background in business administration and enjoy developing new ideas.

Email me: officemanager@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

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Office Assistant

Email me: oa@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

Kirsten Watson
Volunteer Coordinator

I joined the team after studying for 5 years at the University of St Andrews. I’ve been involved in volunteering for many years and know first hand the joys (and challenges) that this can bring! I’m here to support all of our incredible volunteers, through regular support meetings, training and events, to ensure that this is a positive and rewarding experience for all. 

Email me: vc@familiesfirststandrews.org.uk

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