Script Editing & Development
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Creative Coaching
I care about why you want to tell your story, and how it feels telling it, as much as how it’s working on the page.
I help writers and producers find the best version of their script, and creative people from all walks of life find the most fulfilling version of their creative life.
About
I bring over a decade of experience in scripted film and television, having worked across development, commissioning and production. I’ve worked for BBC Drama, Channel 4 Drama, Amazon Scripted Originals, the BFI Film Fund, and as Head of Development at Paramount Television Studios International.
I've worked on BAFTA-winning and nominated television, including The Gold (BBC One/Paramount+) and Mood (BBC Three), as well as feature films and BIFA and BAFTA-nominated shorts, including toni_with_an_i and Goldfish. Through my work with BFI NETWORK, BBC Writers, Ffilm Cymru Wales, the National Film and Television School and other talent development programmes, I've had the privilege of working with writers and filmmakers at every stage of their careers, and I have a particular love of supporting emerging talent.
Alongside my development work, I'm a qualified Transformational Coach. I've coached professional writers and directors, as well as people from all walks of life who want to write, reconnect with their creativity, or build a more fulfilling creative life.
I bring a thoughtful, holistic, and empathetic approach to everything I do. I believe creating your best work has as much to do with craft as it does with your emotional and psychological experience of making it.
Script Editing & Development
Writers
Whether you're working on a television pilot, feature film, short film, treatment, outline, or anything in between, I can help you uncover what you really want to say - and find the strongest way of saying it.
I work with writers at every stage of their career, from those writing their first script to established professionals, on commissioned and funded projects as well as deeply personal passion projects.
Producers
Having worked in commissioning, development and for global studios, I understand what it takes for a project to stand out in a crowded market.
Whether you need in-depth development support on a single project, fresh editorial perspective on a script that isn't quite landing, or strategic input on a slate that's lost momentum, I can help.
I offer one-off consultations as well as ongoing editorial and development support, helping you strengthen projects, navigate creative challenges, and prepare them for the next stage of their journey.
Rates
Every project is different, and so is the support it needs. Whether you're developing a funded project, working with a production company, or self-financing, I offer a range of options to suit different stages of development and different budgets.
Please get in touch to discuss your project and I'll recommend the approach that best fits your needs. You can contact me directly, or through my agents, Kelly Knatchbull and Eva Bell at Sayle Screen.
Testimonials
I worked with Jess at a point in my project where I knew where I wanted to go and was struggling to truly execute getting there. Jess’ feedback was patient and generous and never prescriptive and I always felt that we were going to get there eventually. She is thoughtful and kind and also truly hilarious. The support Jess gave me was vital in getting me to a place where I was confident with and excited by script again and I now spend a lot of my time telling other writers to work with her too.
— Zoe Alker, Writer/DirectorCreative Coaching
Whether you've been writing professionally for years, you're a first-time director, or you've always had a burning desire to create something but haven't yet taken that first step, creative coaching can help.
I know the film and television industry inside out, as well as the challenges of building a creative career. I can help if you're navigating imposter syndrome, self-doubt, creative blocks, difficult feedback, or the emotional complexities of telling a deeply personal story.
I also know what it's like to want to create while balancing work, parenting, or the many other demands of life. Together, we'll reconnect you with your creativity and build the confidence, clarity and creative practice that allow you to make the work that's calling to you.
Creative coaching is offered as a six-session programme (£570), designed to give us the time and space to explore your creative challenges and build lasting momentum.
If you'd like to find out whether coaching is right for you, get in touch to book a free 15-minute Discovery Call.
FREE
Creative Clinic
Every Wednesday from 12–1pm, I offer a free 60-minute Creative Clinic. Whether you're feeling creatively stuck, wrestling with a project, or simply need space to think something through, these sessions are open to anyone.
To make the clinic available to as many people as possible, there is a maximum of one free session per person.
Sessions are released monthly. Book your place here.
Testimonials
“When I started working with Jess I had been through a lot of personal and professional change and it all seemed intertwined. I knew I wanted to keep moving forward but I didn’t know how. I felt tired and stuck. From the start Jess made me feel safe to talk, never put me on the spot and allowed me to find my voice. Each session I’ve always come away feeling like I understand something new, have greater clarity and feel more positive about the future. I’ve learned things I will always now carry with me”
— Writer, TV & Theatre“Jess is warm, honest and great at listening. Each session has been really valuable and allowed me to slow down from a hectic day or week and check in with myself. Working on the balance of work and life has actually made me more productive. Reminding myself to consider the ‘why’ more frequently has also been a result of the sessions and helps to put things into perspective!”
— Director, TV“My sessions with Jess have been an incredible support for me during a hugely challenging period in my career. They've provided me with a space to vocalise and process issues, be understood, and come away with practical tools to help implement positive changes in my life. It’s also been really beneficial to work with a coach who understands my industry and the process of my work - it’s made our sessions uniquely tailored. I’ve felt really understood.”
— Writer/Director, Feature FilmsResources
I write a regular Substack about screenwriting craft and navigating the emotional aspects of creating.