​My contribution to the PR profession goes beyond client work. As an experienced Chartered PR Practitioner, I’ve actively supported the development of our industry through governance, leadership and volunteering with the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and related bodies. This helps shape professional standards, champion ethical practice and strengthen the PR community — which in turn benefits organisations and clients I work with.
Volunteering with the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) is more than giving your time – it’s a chance to shape the future of the profession, meet brilliant people, and pick up new skills along the way. Whether it’s organising events, supporting members, or championing high standards, CIPR volunteers help keep our community strong and connected.
​
“I volunteer because I genuinely enjoy being part of the CIPR community. It gives me the chance to give something back, but it also inspires me and keeps my practice fresh – I learn so much from the people I meet and the projects I get involved in. My CIPR roles involve supporting professional standards, ethics and sector research — showcasing my commitment to best practice beyond client projects.”
2025 CIPR Volunteer Awards
​- Outstanding Long Service

​Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Involvement
  • NE Committee Member (2004–2023) – Long-standing contributor with progressive leadership roles, including Acting Chair (2019–2020) and Chair (2020–2023), driving strategic direction and member engagement.
  • NE Committee Member (2023 - ) Co-opted member sharing knowledge and experience with the current committee.
  • Vice Chair (2014–2017, 2018–2019) – Supported governance, member development and professional practice initiatives.
  • Pride Coordinator (2011–2019) – Led coordination of CIPR Pride Awards in the North East, overseeing event planning, judging processes, sponsorship, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Social Media Coordinator (2010–2019) – Managed digital presence, growing engagement and strengthening CIPR’s regional profile through strategic content planning.
  • Conference & Event Leadership
    • Organised CIPR Northern Conference (2018), securing speakers and delivering a high-profile regional event.
    • Co-created the Strategic Communications Forum (2018), facilitating peer knowledge exchange.
    • Organised CIPR Chartership Assessment Day in the North East (2019), broadening access to professional accreditation.
  • CIPR Council Member (2016–2020) – Contributed to national governance, policy development and sector-wide initiatives.
  • Committee Service – Served two terms each on the Professional Standards Committee and Finance Committee, supporting ethics, accountability and organisational sustainability.
  • CIPR Research Panel Member (2021–present) – Advising on sector research priorities and insights to shape the profession.
Contributions and Impact
CIPR North East Committee 
As a long-standing member, I helped expand professional development opportunities and increase engagement across the region, ensuring PR professionals have access to high-quality training, networking and support.
CIPR Professional Body
I contribute to policy development and uphold professional standards, helping ensure ethical and effective communications practice within the industry.
Mentorship and Education
I mentor emerging PR professionals and support apprenticeships and training initiatives, helping the next generation of communicators gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed.
Publications and Thought Leadership
I contribute insights and guidance on communications strategy, ethics and best practice, supporting knowledge sharing and sector-wide learning.
​Trustee Roles 
​Currently serving as Trustee for iProvision, supporting member welfare and regional activity.
​Let’s Connect
If you are looking for strategic, ethical and informed PR and communications support, I would be delighted to discuss how I can help your organisation achieve its goals.
© DebSharratt Communications 2026. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this website's owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to DebSharratt Communications with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.