Lauren Lamberton is a qualified child therapist and social worker with extensive experience across mental health services for children, young people, families, and care leavers. Lauren is currently a Senior Manager in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services at the Belfast Trust and lectures in Psychology, Social Work, and Play Therapy with the Open University and Chichester University.

In addition, Lauren is a Board Member of Waymaker CIC, a former Governor of a Belfast Special School, and delivers specialist training for Play Therapy UK. Lauren has also led community and youth initiatives, including the Youth Philanthropy Project, and founded a charity supporting children’s education in South America.

Holding a Master’s in Public Administration from Ulster University and completing a PhD at the University of Edinburgh, Lauren brings deep expertise in governance, strategy, and advocacy. A passionate supporter of the arts and mental wellbeing, Lauren believes strongly in the role of theatre and dance in building confidence, connection, and creativity for young people and communities alike.