Kirsty Day - Director of Recovery & Director of Practice - WRNA

Kirsty has been part of The Nelson Trust since 2013, starting her journey as a Recovery Worker in Residential Services. She quickly made a significant impact by transitioning to Women’s Community Services, where she played a pivotal role in the Sex Working Outreach Programme (SWOP). Through this programme, Kirsty developed a range of specialist interventions and created comprehensive pathways for women who sell sex, both in community and residential settings.

Returning to Residential Services as the Admissions Lead, Kirsty transformed our admissions process by implementing trauma-informed practices, ensuring a more compassionate and supportive experience for those entering our care. She then took on the role of Learning and Development Lead, where she developed an extensive suite of training programmes for both internal colleagues and external providers. In early 2020, she was appointed Head of Recovery, leading our Residential Services through the challenges of the pandemic.

Today, as the Director of Recovery, she oversees the full spectrum of services—from detox to employment—offering holistic support for men and women seeking recovery. With a deep understanding and passion for our charity’s mission, Kirsty has been instrumental in advancing trauma-informed approaches across The Nelson Trust.

Kirsty is committed to expanding our recovery services by integrating recovery capital with trauma-informed approaches, ensuring our clients have the best opportunities to reintegrate into the community with a strong foundation for sustained recovery and improved employment prospects. Her focus is on enhancing the client experience through every stage of their recovery journey, including their transition into The Hub Enterprises. She also champions the development of our internal Leadership Academy, ensuring our staff have opportunities to grow and excel.

Additionally, Kirsty plays a vital role in facilitating co-production of services through the Gloucestershire Clients’ Council, ensuring that client voices are heard and valued. She has chaired the Trauma-Informed Guide Team since its inception at The Nelson Trust, further solidifying her dedication to creating a supportive and empowering environment for all those we serve.