Background I came to Town Break after over 30 years in mental health services. Over the years I’ve managed care homes, led outreach teams, and set up a 12-week recovery programme for people navigating addiction, homelessness and long-term mental illness. It wasn’t always easy work — but it was real, and it mattered. You learn a lot about people (and systems) in jobs like that.

 

My Role at Town Break I started here as Service Manager, thinking I’d found a quieter pace. That lasted five minutes. When the CEO role came up, I went for it — and got it. These days, I lead the organisation’s direction, make sure we’ve got the right strategy and funding in place, and keep the show on the road. I work closely with our team, our trustees and our partners to make sure we’re actually delivering what people need — not just what ticks a box.

 

Why This Work Matters to Me Dementia has touched my own family. My gran and my aunt both lived with it, and I saw first-hand how hard it was — not just for them, but for everyone around them. My aunt’s experience in particular was incredibly tough, and the lack of proper support made it worse. That’s stayed with me. It’s why I care deeply about what Town Break does, and why I’ll always argue for better.

 

Outside of Work I read a lot (and not just strategy documents). I play the violin, badly. I’ve got three grown-up children, four grandchildren, two dogs and a cat — so if I’m not at work, I’m probably being bossed about by one of them. I’m happiest outdoors with a decent pair of boots and a bit of peace and quiet — rare, but not impossible.