‘Vanessa was asked … to provide a sensitivity review… of my forthcoming book. Given the subject matter (spoken language, identity and prejudice), it was especially important that the language used in the book itself was as inclusive and accurate as possible, and Vanessa was the ideal person to check that this was the case.

‘She provided a detailed review, highlighting all the instances where particular words or particular phrasing could be adjusted so as to be more sensitive, appropriate and inclusive.

‘She didn’t criticise; she simply pointed out instances where she felt something could be worded differently, and provided well-informed and constructive suggestions as to how I could make those changes if I agreed that they were necessary.

‘The whole process was insightful, supportive and valuable, and I would have no hesitation in recommending Vanessa for her expertise in this area.‘

Rob Drummond, sociolinguist and author, You’re All Talk: why we are what we speak (Scribe, 2023)