Information on Staff

Information on Staff

Hazel Jack – Office Manager

I joined Encompass in 2005 “ just to help out” – and all these years later I am now the Manager!

Before joining Encompass my background was in the busy electronics industry, where I covered all aspects of office life – accounts, payroll, human resources, sales, production control and procurement.

That experience definitely helped me with the varied roles within Encompass.

I enjoy being the Manager of Encompass and I work with a great team of people who are committed to ensuring our clients get the help and support they need when choosing a Direct Payment.

Working for Encompass is always busy and it can be challenging but knowing we are helping our clients and their families to have more choice and control over their support needs is really rewarding.

I was born in Selkirk and still live there with my family. I enjoy keeping fit and I love walking in the border hills with my collie Gem.

Kevin Poulton – Finance Manager

Kevin joined us in June of 2023, he has brought an immense amount of experience and is a valuable edition to the finance department.

Sally Bell – Finance Officer

I joined the lovely team here at Encompass in July 2018. The office is always busy and I enjoy dealing with all the varied aspects of my role.

Previously I have worked offshore and with Scottish Borders Council before taking an extended maternity leave to raise my two children.

My favourite thing about Encompass is the focus on providing the best possible support to our clients. And the home baking.

Niccy Kershaw – SiRD

I started out as the development worker for Borders Direct Payment Agency back in 1999.

I have worked through numerous changes and challenges over the years as the organisation has developed. I find the work Encompass does is extremely rewarding. We have a good team and a supportive Board of Directors.

I am currently working on the Support in the Right Direction (SIRD) Project – very part-time and based from home. The project promotes the 4 SDS options, developing pre-assessment support to individuals and set up and supports the Scottish Borders SDS Forum.

I love animals, walking and the countryside. Some of you will already know my main obsession is supporting my family with motorcycle sidecar cacing!

Kirsty Robson – Employer Support Advisor – Peeblesshire Area

I joined encompass in April 2019 and really enjoy working with such a lovely team of people.

Every day presents a new challenge so we are always kept on our toes but always pull together to help, when needed.

At home I have a nearly 17 year old and a three year old so I live in a permanent state of exhaustion but I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Oh, and I love a pink post-it note! Just ask Jemma.

Jill Earsman – Employer Support Advisor – Central Area

I joined encompass in June 2021 and I am looking forward to working with a lovely team and meeting our clients.

I previously worked in the mental health sector for over 12 years and look forward to a new challenge.

Kirsty Bradshaw – McLeish – Employer Support Advisor – Berwickshire Area

I was lucky enough to join Encompass in May this year. Prior to this I was in the social care field for a long time working for different providers, mainly supporting children or adults with learning disabilities.

Out of work life has changed a lot lately also from the various travel and adventures I used to go on as I have settled down now and have a 1 year old at home who keeps us very busy, along with the pets!

Jemma Paterson – Administrator

I have been working with encompass for almost a year and I am enjoying the variety of the work and the buzz of the office. My colleagues have been lovely as have all of the clients.

Prior to this job I had been working in customer service and debt recovery so it has been a welcome change to be doing work that involves helping the public.

Out of work I spend most of my time with my husband, 2 daughters and 2 Cocker Spaniels.

Brandon Brown – Employer Support Advisor - Cheviot Area

I’ve worked for Encompass since the beginning of 2022 as an Administrator and stuck with it for just shy of 3 years, I’ve now switched role and am now an Employer Support Advisor for the Cheviot area. Very excited to see what the future holds in my new role.

Sheila Cochrane - Payroll Officer

I joined Encompass in 2003 and have enjoyed being part of a great team, seeing the organisation grow over the years.

I have lived in Selkirk all my life and enjoy the outdoor life.

Cycling is my passion and The Borders is a brilliant place to indulge this hobby – so many lovely routes!!

Yvonne Curle – Payroll Officer

I joined Encompass in July ’23, prior to this I worked in finance with an LD provider for 36 years, so this is only the 2nd job I’ve ever had!

The team in the office are so friendly and supportive, I feel this has been the best move for me.

I live in Galashiels with my partner and enjoy weekends away when we can.

Sharon Onley - Payroll Officer

Sharon has worked in our Payroll and Auditing department since October 2014.

You can usually find her waiting patiently for HMRC to answer her calls.

Quentin Grant – Payroll Assistant

I have been with the organisation since 2003, initially providing administrative support to the Board, Manager and colleagues. Since “retiring” in October 2020, I continue to support the Payroll Team during each month’s payroll run but with reduced hours.

It’s been a very exciting and rewarding time working for an organisation that has seen exceptional growth and development in all of the services that we provide to our client group.



Colin Stewart – Employment Support Advisor - Teviot Area

I was given the privilege and opportunity to join Encompass in June 2025. 

Prior to joining Encompass, I worked for the Scottish Borders Council for 12 years, 9 of which were within the social work team. I have always enjoyed working with people and helping them, so this is the perfect job for me, and I am looking forward to the many adventures that lay ahead!.