Home-Start’s mission to support families is something I feel very passionate about. Having moved to a number of new places and countries while raising young children, I understand first-hand how valuable a strong support network can be. The early years of parenthood bring many joys but also a host of challenges, and having someone to turn to for advice, encouragement, or simply a listening ear can make a huge difference.

Alongside these personal experiences, I bring professional expertise from senior leadership roles in business, with a particular focus on finance and organisational growth. As Treasurer, I am committed to helping Home-Start Southern Oxfordshire maintain strong financial foundations so that it can continue providing vital support to families across our community for years to come.

I became a trustee in 2023 after being indirectly involved through my mum for several years. Home-Start Southern Oxfordshire is an amazing charity and being a trustee is a way for me to support its good work.

I work full-time as a primary school teacher with prior experience in adult mental health support, but I have also been a Rainbow and Brownie leader for more than 20 years.

I am the trustee responsible for safeguarding in relation to both adults and children.

I am passionate about children having the best start in life, which is why I became a Home-Start trustee and volunteer. I am a parent and grandparent who has spent a number of years working in a variety of roles within Oxfordshire Children’s Services. My career has given me considerable experience in understanding the needs of the most vulnerable children and their families. I am passionate about ensuring plans and decisions made about children are effective, and put the child at the centre to make sure their best interest is always promoted. I am excited to be working with an organisation which has a very committed team of staff, trustees and volunteers.

I am delighted to be a trustee for Home-Start Southern Oxfordshire. I strongly believe in the power of community and appreciate the huge help that Home-Start volunteers bring to families every week.  

I have teenage twin daughters and when they were young I really did not know how to cope. Like many people I found a way but it was a struggle and at times I felt very vulnerable. I know Home-Start would have been a great support to me at that time.

Since the start of my working life – managing a housing estate in London – I have always tried to make that extra difference in the way I support others. These early experiences helped me appreciate that it is local people who were most likely to achieve real change in and for local communities. I have been a champion of volunteers and community support since then, working ceaselessly in all areas of my life to secure better public services in communities across the United Kingdom.

I recognise the breadth and depth of experience across the staff and trustees and look forward to working with them for the benefit of families in the southern area of Oxfordshire.