I’ve been a freelance writer, editor and proofreader since 2001. I originally trained and worked as a journalist, both writing and subediting stories, then moved into internal and external communications.
My background and experiences since have helped me develop many skills to help you, so I can:
- quickly get to grips with complex subjects and issues, including the broader context
- ask the right questions to understand fully the purpose of your material
- challenge assumptions and use of terminology
- handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately
- meet deadlines, even when work arrives at short notice or your timescales change
- address underlying barriers to effective communication
On top of these I have the essential writing, editing and proofreading skills to create new content and improve draft text.
Professional development and standards
I aim to work to the highest professional standards. I’m an Advanced Professional Member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) and a long-standing member of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ). I follow both the CIEP and NUJ codes of conduct and practice.
I’m also a member of the Patient Information Forum (PIF) and achieved its PIF TICK Competent Badge, a quality mark for freelance writers and editors that demonstrates my commitment to the highest standards of health information production.
I try to keep learning and improving, particularly through CIEP and PIF webinars and events on important topics such as health literacy and inclusive language.
I’ve also completed formal training programmes, including those provided by other professional bodies like the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA).
And I help develop training, such as the CIEP Health Editing course.
“Vicky is a fantastic editor! She has completed countless copy edits and some proofreads for Haremi, all of which have been meticulous and precise. We can trust her to deliver high quality edits on time.”
Evie Nicol, Editorial Manager, Haremi
Certification
- Medicolegal Report Editing (EFA, 2026)
- Copyediting 3: Progress (CIEP, 2024)
- Medical Editing (CIEP, 2022)
- Word for Practical Editing (CIEP, 2022)