A bit about me ...
Hi, my name is Helen and I’m a proofreader and copyeditor, based in Oxfordshire, where I live with my husband and our cat.
I have worked for 15 years across a variety of sectors, including the civil service, environment, NGOs, hospitality, and horticulture.
After completing my master’s degree in political economy, I spent several years at Save the Children UK as an executive assistant and a policy adviser.
In 2022, I set up Iris Editorial where I work as a freelance proofreader and copyeditor, combining my strong attention to detail and love of words with my passion for helping others.
A passionate proofreader with experience working with a wide range of content, from website articles and academic essays to plays and novels. I am an Intermediate member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) and I have a diploma (Distinction) in proofreading and editing.
When I am not at my desk editing for clients, I can most likely be found pottering barefoot in my garden, swimming, or smothering my cat (with cuddles). I am a passionate gardener and love everything to do with horticulture. I also love to travel – some of my favourite destinations so far include Ethiopia, Peru and Nepal. I am also a massive TV and film nerd and read scripts for fun!
Am I the best fit for you?
Want to work with someone who will treat your words like their own? Feel a bit unsure about sharing your writing with a proofreader/editor?
My clients want someone who is meticulous and professional, but also empathetic and kind. I help their words to shine, and I build their confidence as writers.
- I strive for the best
- Committed to your author's voice
- Honest and transparent services, tailored to your needs
- Reliable, professional, and skilled
- Empathetic, sensitive, and encouraging
My qualifications
MSc (Merit), Development Administration and Planning, University College London (2014) (Specialisms included, gender in policy and planning, and the political economy of international development).
BA Hons (2:1), Geography, University of Manchester (2007)
Level 4 Diploma (Distinction), Proofreading and editing, College of Media and Publishing (2022)
Proofreading 1: Introduction, Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (2022)
Proofreading 2: Headway, Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (2023)
Getting to Grips with Grammar and Punctuation, Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (2023)
I am thoroughly committed to my professional training and development.