Our People
PATRONS
Nigel Planer
Nigel’s been an actor, singer and writer since he started in the early 80s as an original member of the Comedy Store and Comic Strip clubs. He played Neil in the Young Ones and has gone on to star in many other TV and theatre productions. He is very aware of the need for long term housing for the long term mentally ill, who are currently let down by the insecurity of the temporary support system. Author of ‘A Good Enough Dad’, and ‘Therapy and How to Avoid It ’, he is proud to be a patron of Hammersley Homes.
David Gower OBE
English cricket commentator and former cricketer David Gower, was captain of the England cricket team during the 1980s, and has been described as one of the most stylish left-handed batsmen of his era. "I’m proud to be able to support Hammersley Homes - it is just so vitally important that the most vulnerable people in our society are able to know that they have a secure place to call home.”
John Illsley
I am a founder member of the band Dire Straits and honoured to support and be a Patron of Hammersley Homes, which I’m sure will be an invaluable resource in helping people in later life deal with mental illness
Kit Kemp MBE
As a co-owner and Creative Director of Firmdale Hotels, Kit is passionate about creating exciting and unique interiors. She is an author, successful textiles, homewares & fragrance designer and respected champion of British art.
Vanessa Branson
Vanessa Branson is a champion of global cultural and ecological initiatives and is frequently sought after as a keynote speaker and event chair.
As the Founding President of the Marrakech Biennale, she created North Africa’s only trilingual arts festival – comprising visual art, literature and film programs featuring acclaimed international and Moroccan artists.
In October 2014, Vanessa Branson was awarded the Royal distinction of Officer of the Order of Ouissam Alaouite, a Royal honour is in recognition of the contribution she has made to the Moroccan cultural scene and, in particular, for her efforts in establishing Marrakech as a richly diverse and eclectic platform for the arts.
Prior to this, between 1999 and 2004, she was co-founding curator with Prue O'Day of the Wonderful Fund Collection. Her other cultural projects have included the establishment and co-direction – along with Prue O’Day and Anatol Orient – of the Portobello Arts Festivals in 1987, 1988 and 1989.
Active as an entrepreneur, she founded the Vanessa Devereux Gallery (1986–91) in London, where she showed a number of emerging artists including William Kentridge’s UK debut exhibition.
In 2002, along with her business partner Howell James CBE, she developed an ancient crumbling palace in the centre of Marrakech into a beautiful boutique hotel - El Fenn.
She owns and runs Eilean Shona, a tidal island on the west coast of Scotland at the entrance to Loch Moidart where J M Barrie wrote the screenplay for Peter Pan.
She is a trustee of the British Moroccan Society and The Leilea Alaoui Foundation, as well as a trustee for Virgin Unite.
Her memoir One Hundred Summers was published on 21 May 2020.
She believes in a fairer world and is pleased to support the work of Hammersley Homes.
TRUSTEES
Our trustees are currently the charity’s managing team, running the strategic development and the organisation on a day-to-day basis, supported by our fantastic team of volunteers.
Louise Hallett
Founder
Louise has, for many years, felt passionately about care and housing for adults suffering from mental illness, and has long wanted to do something about providing an alternative to “care in the community” for this vulnerable sector. Recently retired from 45 years working in various areas of the International Contemporary Art World, she, together with her fellow Trustees, is now directing her energy towards building and developing Hammersley Homes.
Marion Lewis
CHAIR OF TRUSTEES
After a professional career in Clinical Psychology, with a doctoral thesis on Anxiety, Marion later moved into international business management. During this time, she also worked for the Prince’s Trust as a business mentor. With more time to use her skills in the voluntary sector she served on the board of Breast Cancer Care (later Breast Cancer Now) including as chair of Governance.
Marion is delighted to contribute her skills, experience and knowledge to the important mission of Hammersley Homes.
Sue Gray
SECRETARY
Sue has had a long career in the health and social care sector, originally working as a nurse for the NHS in various clinical roles and later in management positions in the private sector. Being passionate about the quality aspects of care delivery she has been involved in the introduction of clinical governance systems in both the UK and overseas.Her most recent work included providing domiciliary care services to people in their own homes which made her more acutely aware of the inadequate support available to people with long term mental health issues. She hopes her past experience will help Hammersley Homes develop their support network for these people, to enable them to live safe and secure lives.
Richard Rayner
TREASURER
Richard is a Chartered Accountant that has spent most of his post qualification career within social housing and the not-for-profit sector. He brings considerable knowledge and expertise within financial management, treasury, viability modelling and business planning. Richard is excited to join Hammersley Homes as a Board Trustee and Treasurer and hopes to assist the charity grow to become a sustainable organisation that has the financial resilience to deliver the best possible ongoing support for our service users.
Lizzie Grant
Following a career in advertising and several years as a Complementary Therapist and Life Coach, Lizzie is now able to spend more time volunteering in her community.Through her work with young offenders and the homeless, she experiences at first hand the effect mental health issues have on these vulnerable members of our society and is delighted to join the Board of Trustees of Hammersley Homes to help them with their very important mission.
Jill Stafford
Jill brings her experience in the development and operation of supported housing, project management, and charity knowledge to her role as trustee. Her career in the not-for-profit sector, and work with clients with enduring mental illness, has made her aware of the need for the services which Hammersley Homes provides. She is delighted to join Hammersley Homes to contribute to its growth.
Andrew Harrison
Hi, I’m Andrew, and I’m proud and delighted to be part of Hammersley Homes. It's an amazing cause.
I’m originally from Cumbria, but while I was in the military, I moved around quite a bit. When I left the armed forces 20 years ago, I moved from London to Hampshire, and embarked on a career in the care industry. I started as a care worker, and progressed to CEO and a company owner. My main experience has been within domiciliary care, residential and nursing homes, especially in dementia care.
I'm also in my final year as a very mature student at Bournemouth University, soon to qualify as a Mental Health Nurse.
I have 6 children, and in my spare time (ha-ha spare time!) I like to listen to music, watch movies and walk in the beautiful New Forest.
ADVISORY BOARD
Natalia Kolotneva
Natalia is an experienced real estate professional with a strong track record in investment and asset management, previously working in leadership positions across public and private sectors. She is currently driving the performance of a specialist asset management team at LaSalle Investment Management within operational sectors, including housing, student accommodation, healthcare and hospitality. Built environment is an ultimate impact asset class that shapes people’s lives and the livelihood of its community. With keen interest in finding innovative housing solutions for vulnerable people in our communities, Natalia serves as an Advisor to the Board in its ambitious growth plans. She brings commercial mind and charitable heart.
Susan Pearson
Susan is a real estate lawyer who has spent many years assisting charitable organisations in their property transactions, combining her commercial property expertise with her knowledge of charity law. She has for many years been a trustee for a charity which supports people with learning disabilities and their families. Susan wants to use her knowledge and experience to help and support Hammersley Homes in her role as an Advisor to the Board.
Tatyana Ignatyeva
Tatyana Ignatyeva is the Managing Director (CEO) of TSI Group in London UK. Tatyana has two decades of experience in the acquisition, development, investment and exit of real-estate investments. She currently spearheads a number of special purpose and acquisition vehicles with over two dozen of investments and completed exits, and $100m of successful projects in the UK, Central and Southern Europe. Prior to founding her real estate, advisory and investment firm, Tatyana worked at a Mayfair-based 1bn+ Hedge Fund (Argo Capital Management) for over 10 years. Tatyana achieved registered and regulated FCA status having qualified with the Investment Managers Certificate of the CFA UK and received the ESG training from CFA. As an entrepreneurial leader and astute investor, she latterly completed the world-class Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), multi-modular programme in Real Estate Finance and Investments.
Judith Richards
After a 30 year career as a producer in documentaries and drama in television and film, Judith moved to working in the Third Sector. After roles including event management and consultancy for various charities, she went on to work as a Project Manager with the National Mental Health Development Unit Acute Care programme.She also worked with the London Development Centre Mental Unit where she was the project lead for implementing Mental Health projects in four Mental Health Trusts in London. While working as a project manager for a Westminster Carers support charity Judith employed her experience of raising finance and managing budgets in film and television to secure £250,000 in National Lottery funding for the project. She fully supports Hammersley Homes and the wonderful work they are doing, and is excited to bring her skills, knowledge and experience to work with them and develop their much needed project.
Laura Pemberton
At 18 I found a passion for mental health nursing, qualified as a mental health nurse and now, many years on, work as a Divisional Director of Nursing and Allied Health Professionals in the NHS.
My greatest passion is to deliver care in a compassionate, caring and human way. That we build communities of openness and support for all the diverse people we are connected with. This applies to every area of life and to all the people involved in the exchanges of support.
Complexity and challenge exists everywhere and thriving in the middle of that is important for us all. Anyone can be affected by many issues that cause illness or need.
The experience and expertise I hold is in many facets of NHS care, networks, strategy and relationships. This is transferable from individuals to large systems - finding a way to solve problems and create supportive connections for people to thrive. Hammersley Homes’s project deeply resonates with me and I am pleased to be able to support them in their valuable work.
AMBASSADORS
April Edwards
Years of witnessing the inadequacy of long term support for sufferers of mental illness has encouraged April’s strong desire to do what she can to help fight for change. She is one of our most enthusiastic and dedicated fundraisers and brings her charm and charisma to our project, helping to spread the word about our aims, and always working to banish the stigma.
Amanda Mann
Amanda Mann is an entrepreneur who is involved in real estate management projects and recently introduced a new line of food “Mann’s Cookies” to the confectionary market. Amanda will bring her special skills of leadership and knowledge of mental health to our work. Amanda is blessed with a charismatic, magnetic personality and she will add her own special brand of energy and excitement to all our endeavors.
STAFF
Sarah Hannant
CEO
I have wanted for a long time to work in the charity sector, and I was delighted to join Hammersley Homes in November 2023 to head up the team who all work so hard to support adults who live with debilitating mental health challenges. It’s wonderfully rewarding work which clearly makes a difference to some vulnerable lives, and the demand for our services is growing rapidly as word spreads about the support we provide. I am proud to be part of this project and excited to see how it develops and where it leads.
Hannah Brown
Finance Manager
I joined Hammersley Homes as the Finance Manager after completing my Bookkeeping qualifications. Prior to this my career has been in Lettings and Property Management. I really enjoy working for the charity and hope to contribute using my passion for finance and property combined. Outside of work I enjoy amateur macro photography, yoga and waking my Dog Coco. Life is busy with 3 children but I enjoy being active and socialising as much as I can. I love learning new skills and qualifications and giving back in the process.
Patrick O’Neill
Outreach Programme Assistant
I’m honoured and excited to be working with Hammersley Homes as part of the admin team supporting the outreach service. The charity and its people provide amazing support and I’m inspired to be a part of it. I have known people in the past who would have benefitted greatly from the comfort, assistance and protection Hammersley Homes offers and its humbling to witness the positive effective it has on the Outreach Members. In my free time I volunteer for various other charities, I like walking, writing music, playing snooker, visiting local areas of interest and watching films.
Heather Ginn
Outreach Home Visitor
Hi, my name is Heather, or called Hev.I have been with my partner Malcolm for 40 years; we have a boy and girl, Leon and Fern, with 2 grandsons and 2 granddaughters so feel very blessed. I love spending time with our grandkids going for walks and fun days out. My daughter has a dog which we look after at times which is lovely. My favourite place we have travelled to is Sorrento in Italy, obviously eating loads of pasta. I love watching old movies and going to the cinema and pottering in the garden, not that I am that great at it so happy to sit and relax in it. We our avid Saints football supporters so weekends are spent watching them so always busy.
Bruce White
Outreach Home Visitor
I have recently moved to the New Forest with my wife, who used to be a midwife and counsellor. We have two daughters and 3 grandchildren so far. I was a Primary Teacher for 20 years then I worked in the charity/voluntary sector for nearly 18 years.I have my own lived experience of mental health issues and have been involved in a Mental Health Befriending Service in Winchester and a support group in Eastleigh.I am a Lay Minister, so could be found leading a church service near you!I love music, art, sport, walking, good food and going to the cinema and theatre.I am thrilled to be working as an Outreach Home Visitor with Hammersley Homes.
Vicky Marley
Outreach Home Visitor
Originally from the North East of England,I moved to the South Coast 18 years ago – I now can’t imagine not living by the sea. I’m married with two children and two dogs - life is busy ! I’m very much an outdoors person, you can find me either cycling in the new forest, walking my dogs, playing rugby, golf or tennis or going for a dip in the sea. I also love gardening, travelling and entertaining. I met my husband abroad – we both have a love for travel and adventure, which we try to instil in our children. For several years I have volunteered at my childrens sports clubs and most recently at a local charity garden centre and cafe. I’m enjoying being part of the Hammersley Homes team, and hope that I will have a positive effect on the members I meet.
Ian Harris
Outreach Home Visitor
Hey I’m Ian, I joined in October 2024 and I feel honoured to be part of this amazing team to help adults such as myself who suffer with debilitating mental and physical illnesses improve their quality of life. I have met many people from all walks of life over the years from work and personal experiences. Due to this I feel I can contribute and help others reach their goals however big or small.
In my spare time I love going for walks, painting, drawing, bowling and watching tv and films listening to paranormal podcasts such as Uncanny.
James White
Outreach Programme Manager
I started as the Outreach Programme Manager in February 2024 and have a background in Sport and Exercise Psychology, working privately and within the NHS to create new clinics, services and long-term structures that have supported hundreds of patients and clients to meet their health goals. I love all sports and being active, and I am always keen to try something new. I grew up in the New Forest before moving to Derbyshire and then returning to Southampton. I have a German Shepherd named Sam, who I love to spend time with walking in the open areas of The New Forest.
OUTREACH VOLUNTEERS
Michelle Mclntosh
My name is Michelle but you can call me Shell. I am 34 years old and have always worked in the care industry, both elderly and learning disabilities since I was 18. I have joined Hammersley Homes as I am wanting to help people who need it. I believe having someone who you can trust to share your worries and doubts with is very important and I will try my hardest to help in any way I can.
Jennifer Maxwell
Hello, my name is Jenny and I am very excited to join the Hammersley Homes Outreach Team, and to be part of a friendly team of volunteers, working with people who need that extra support.
In my free time, I like going to the gym, long walks, and also trying to bake cakes while listening to the top charts music!
Ebilayefa Freda Imoniero
I love to be a volunteer with Hammersley Homes because I find joy knowing I was able to make someone happy by mere talking and passing on some wonderful wisdom nuggets, and making them know that Happiness comes from within and no one can take that away from us.
Olivia Cochran
I’m a first year student studying Psychology at Winchester university. I am passionate about mental health and have seen the impact of both mental and physical illnesses and the stigmatisation that follows this. I believe that Hammersley Homes provides genuine care and support for those suffering, offering them a voice and someone who will listen, as I believe this can make such a positive impact on someone’s life. I am excited to become a volunteer and I plan to help in anyway I can to support this organisation and create a difference.
Lisa Marshall
My name is Lisa Marshall. As an enthusiastic and compassionate individual, I am excited about the opportunity to volunteer as an outreach support worker at Hammersley Homes. With my background in domestic abuse and mental health, as well as my strong commitment to making a positive impact, I am confident in my ability to provide valuable support to individuals in need. Through my previous volunteering experiences and my understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, I am dedicated to empowering and advocating for those who require assistance. By joining Hammersley Homes, I hope to contribute my skills, knowledge, and passion to create lasting change in the lives of the individuals and families we serve.
Wendy Russell-Eves
Wendy has numerous years of experience in support work with a specialism in mental health as well as in adult education. Still working in the support arena but currently supporting digital skills and access. Wendy would like to continue using her skill set and passion to support Hammersley Homes members to live fulfilled lives. Wendy has personal family experience of the impact mental health can have on individuals and their futures and is hoping to provide much needed support to improve the lives of others. Wendy is happiest when busy (thank you ADHD) so as well as working fulltime and volunteering, she is also studying for a degree in Forensic Psychology at the OU. In her downtime you can find her at a sewing machine, the gym or watching rugby.
Deji Oyewo
As a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of experience, I've dedicated my career to leveraging technology to solve complex problems and drive innovation. Beyond my professional expertise, I'm characterized by my compassionate nature and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. I find fulfilment in helping others and am deeply committed to contributing to societal betterment. Joining Hammersley Homes has been a source of joy and pride for me, as I deeply resonate with their mission and the meaningful work they do in the community. I am excited to be part of a team that shares my values and is dedicated to creating positive change.
Katie Taylor
Hello, I’m Katie, a third-year student from the University of Southampton studying Psychology. I am really enjoying volunteering for such an amazing charity that really cares about the members wellbeing and mental health. I see myself working within care and mental health in the future so I am delighted to be volunteering for the Outreach programme and making a difference in people’s lives is so rewarding. In my spare time I love shopping and spending time with my friends and family.
Paige McGurty
Hello, I’m Paige I’ve recently joined Hammersley Homes in hopes to have a positive impact on well-being and to assist in helping those in need of support.I’m currently studying Animal care, welfare and behaviour online and have plenty of spare time and wanted to use that towards something that’s fulfilling and offers a helping hand. I believe every challenge has a solution and every bad day can end with a smile.Having volunteered online previously for a mental health support platform I’ve gained more knowledge surrounding mental health and have successfully helped several people along the way. I have also studied and passed a mental health awareness course that gave insights into several aspects covering mental health and well-being. I hope to help support Hammersley Homes in making a better and brighter future for those in need.In my spare time I love spending time with my animals, taking my son on days out and embracing the outdoors.
ADMIN VOLUNTEERS
Wendy Cadden
Hi. I’m Wendy. I am a mum of 4 and live in Northern Ireland. Where I’m from, there is a lot of deprivation and lack of services for supporting sufferers of mental ill health. I have seen the consequences of this too many times. You have to fight for the services that are available and sadly, if you aren’t in a position to advocate for yourself, you slip through the cracks. This is a nationwide problem, that Hammersley Homes are working hard to change. I’m delighted to lend my voice to Hammersley Homes, researching news and current affairs, to help raise awareness on mental health.
Bryan Woods
Hello my name is Bryan and I am excited to be joining the Hammersley Homes team. Some ten years ago I was made redundant from my job. I then developed health problems and have been unable to work since that time. Before that I spent many years suffering from severe depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. I was hospitalised on a number of occasions. This has given me first- hand experience of mental health issues and the problems that come with them.Over the past decade I have volunteered with several local and national charities. For the past 18 months I have been a Peer Support Volunteer with Havant and East Hants Mind. I help to run support groups for people who are living with ongoing mental health challenges.When I had to give up work, I felt that I had been thrown on the scrap heap. But it was actually the start of a very rewarding part of my life. Through volunteering I have gained more self-confidence. I am also more empathetic towards other people. There is too the feeling of giving something back to society. My hobbies include drawing and painting, reading, astronomy, and writing magazine articles. I am looking forward to writing a regular online blog for Hammersley Homes.
Charlotte Bedwell
Having worked in education for 4 years, Charlie is passionate about mental health awareness. She will be using her skills as an educator and writer to help support the team in growing its social media presence, spreading the word about Hammersley Homes and the amazing work that it does far and wide!
Nathalie Aparicio
Hi, I am Nathalie and its an honour to be joining Hammersley Homes.
As a Fashion buyer, I’ve spent the last decade working in London, Mexico City and Singapore, and am delighted to share my skills and knowledge by helping to build the charity’s eBay shop.
Combining a passion for creativity, commerce and project management, I have been fortunate enough in my journey to date, to have developed strong cross cultural understanding. Therefore, I´m excited to be joining another diverse group of people and keen to offer some of my personal and professional experiences to the team.
Finally, thank you to the Hammersley Homes for this opportunity and I look forward to supporting the wonderful work of this special organisation.
Destinée Cushnie-Mason
Hi, I'm Destinee and I'm thrilled to be part of the Hammersley Homes volunteer team! Originally from London with a background in Pharmacology, I'm currently based in Bournemouth where I'm pursuing a Masters in Nutrition and Behaviour. Throughout my life, I've developed a strong sense of empathy for those with enduring mental illness, having experienced it first-hand in family members. This has fuelled my passion for improving health and happiness. I can't wait to contribute my evolving nutritional knowledge within this context as a volunteer researcher and writer, to raise awareness and have a positive impact on real lives.
Ebaa Marouf
Hello there! 👋 I'm Ebaa Marouf, a passionate digital and data enthusiast with a rich background as a data analyst in prominent telecom companies across the Middle East and the UK. Having been a key player in building a start-up, I understand the power of technology to drive meaningful change.
Hammersley Homes' mission to provide vital support for adults navigating mental health challenges and psychotic illnesses motivated me to participate to make an impact. It's not just about optimizing keywords; it's about optimizing lives.
This volunteer journey is more than a role; it's an opportunity for me to blend my technological know-how with a genuine commitment to making a positive impact in the community. I'm excited to learn, contribute, and be part of something meaningful.
Sarah Woolf
Hi I am Sarah, and I am a recent Sociology graduate from Bournemouth University. I have experience in fundraising and event organisation from my placement year, and hope to support Hammersley Homes with these skills in any way I can. I am excited to be joining their volunteer team as the services they provide are so important to many and are crucial for the community.
Aziz Rharib
Aziz, 25, has experience in hospitality, including roles at Sofitel Hotel and Robinson Hotel. Driven by a passion for customer service and creativity, he excels in delivering excellent experiences and has frequently supported charity activities. He is happy to join the Hammersley Homes team and contribute his graphic design skills to help with fundraising and PR.
Rohan Beri
I’m a passionate marketing graduate with a keen interest in social media and fitness., I thrive on creating engaging content for social media. I'm honoured to be working regularly with Hammersley Homes, where I continue to apply my knowledge in social media strategy and content creation to help boost awareness on the great work Hammersley Homes is doing.
Himee Senanayake
Hi, I’m Himee, a Social Media volunteer at Hammersley Homes. With a background in digital marketing and psychology, I’m passionate about using my skills to support meaningful causes. Hammersley Homes’ mission deeply resonates with me, and I’m proud to contribute to their work through managing and creating impactful social media content.
Amelie Waugh
I’m Amelie, and I’m currently a second-year media, communications, and advertising student at the University of Winchester. I am passionate about using media to make a positive impact, which is one of the reasons I decided to get involved with volunteering for Hammersley Homes. Volunteering is always a rewarding experience, and I am looking forward to everything I’ll learn along the way.
Daniel Mateo
Hello! I am a student studying Computer Science at Bournemouth University. I do graphic design as a self-taught hobby with a specialty in pixel artworks. I am also a video editor, a competent programmer, and have skills in photo editing. I am proud to be able to volunteer for Hammersley Homes as it gives the opportunity to turn my passion and skills into something that can help the community. I also believe that homelessness is a big problem in the UK, so I am happy to be able to focus my skills and talents into an issue that I am so passionate about, especially after having dealt with mental health issues myself. I hope my efforts are able to make a difference, however small.
Elli Vogelmann
Hi, I’m Elli, and I’m currently finishing my studies at Arts University Bournemouth. I am pleased to be helping out at Hammersley Homes as a graphic designer, using my skills to contribute to something meaningful. Whether I’m working on design projects or in my personal life, I’m always looking for ways to make a positive impact, whether it’s through small acts of kindness or by creating something that sparks joy and connection.
Abbie Nash
Hi, I’m Abbie, a Social Media Volunteer at Hammersley Homes. As a university student studying Criminology and Forensic Psychology, I am passionate about understanding human behavior and advocating for vulnerable communities. Volunteering with Hammersley Homes allows me to combine my academic knowledge with my interest in social impact, helping to raise awareness through engaging and meaningful social media content. I’m proud to support their mission and contribute to the vital work they do.
PAST VOLUNTEERS WHO HAVE HELPED US. WE THANK YOU SO MUCH...
Tuba Yapa
Tuba graduated from the media department at university and produced content in many advertising agencies. Since she was especially interested in video content, she improved herself in this field and worked as a project manager in advertising agencies, online publishing and video production companies.
Due to her interest in digital content, she continued to improve herself in video, graphic design and web content management. Recently, she has been receiving training on coding and working on front end developers, where design and coding meet.
She believes that in order to survive, we must first have good mental health, and this path introduced her to Hammersley Homes. She states that while working on Hammersley Homes' social media accounts, she learned a lot about mental health and its place in social policies, and is excited and pleased to be developing the Hammersley Homes Social Media programme.
Ying-An Chen
An Chen is a passionate graphic designer with five years of experience in producing compelling visuals tailored for technology start-ups and design agencies. Her skill set spans branding, typography, illustration, and UI/UX design. Passionate about mental health, she is delighted to be helping Hammersley Homes by delivering holistic and innovative visual solutions.
Micaela Oyono Ndo
I am a Spanish Business graduate who wants to explore different areas within a Business. I am looking for development by working as part of a team with experienced managers and studying towards a Accounting certification at the NHS, and am very pleased to have this opportunity to work with Hammersley Homes, helping with their website and google analytics. I have been challenging myself in several aspects in my life, working successfully as part of teams with people from different backgrounds and cultures, always bringing my innovative and problem-solving skills to the job. I am also into Fashion, Art and IT which I consider and hope to be my future.
Margi Sutherland
I am South African - I moved to the UK in 2014 with the aim of travelling the world!
I had my own business for seven years, a company specialising in water coolers and purifiers which I sold before leaving South Africa. As well as this, I have worked in art departments, I’ve worked in banks, I was a computer programmer, I led training workshops, and more - all of which have given me skills and experience which I’m delighted now to bring to Hammersley Homes, such a worthwhile charity, whose project means so much to me and which I am happy to support.
Katherine Cook
Hi! I am a graduate from the University of Exeter with a degree in Geography. A lot of my previous experiences have been in the charity/ fundraising world as I have always been interested in making a difference and having a positive impact on people’s lives. This is why I am excited to join Hammersley Homes, helping to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals and developing a long-term living solution for them, and I am looking forward to getting involved and helping to achieve their mission.
Jane Gilbraith
I'm Jane, I'm really excited to be volunteering with the Hammersley Homes team. Having had my own personal mental health issues, as well as supporting close family members through their difficult times, I understand just how vital it is to have a strong support network in place. Hopefully, with my experience and support I can help others when they really need it, and help Hammersley Homes with their office admin.
Ebube Nwachukwu
Having worked in a financial institution for last three years and occupying various positions such as Assistant Head of Operations and Treasury Investment Officer, Ebube decided to pursue a Master’s Degree Program in Management with Business Analytics at the Bournemouth University. She is also an experienced environmental, health and safety consultant and believes in working in a safe and fun environment for higher productivity. Ebube is quite passionate in utilizing her problem-solving skills to deliver projects. As a growing Business Analyst, she is excited to engage in team or sole tasks to ensure desired goals of the organisation is met, and is delighted to be applying her skills to work with Hammersley Homes. She is also enthusiastic about travels, art, music and fashion.
Kevin Thatcher
After attending one of Hammersley Homes events, I met Louise and was instantly hooked on wanting to volunteer and help the charity.
I’m very much a people person and love to work with others. After working in Theatre as a dancer for many years, I retired and started working in the wellness and fitness industry.
My hobbies include dance, tennis and helping others.
Angus Cadwallader
Angus has worked as an editorial and communications specialist for three years and is passionate about conducting research that benefits vulnerable people and communities. He holds an MSc in Media, Communications and International Journalism from the University of Glasgow. By volunteering with Hammersley Homes, Angus hopes to bring the issue of underfunded mental health services to the forefront of public consciousness, as well as work towards securing safe and supported housing for adults suffering from enduring mental illness.
Serena Lee
Hi, I’m Serena, a university student at The University of Southampton.
I have always been passionate about making a difference and helping people, which I believe is the forefront of what Hammersley Homes aims to do. I am excited to be helping with the PR & Marketing side of things, which involves creating increased awareness of our cause. Hopefully with my support, I can help towards improving the lives of individuals and make a positive impact.
Abdul-quadri Shittu
Hello there, I am Abdul-quadri and I am excited to join the Hammersley Homes volunteer team. I have a background as an integration Engineer in the telecommunication industry and currently exploring the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence domain. I understand how the current technology trend is helping to shape the future and everyone should have the opportunity to benefit from this. Mental health is a vital aspect of human existence and I am delighted with this opportunity to join Hammersley Homes and help to contribute to the well-being of those leaving with mental health Challenges.
Rebecca Capewell
My name is Becky, I am excited to volunteer for Hammersley Homes. I think the support and network the charity provides is incredibly important and I'm looking forward to supporting in any way that I can. With a passion for visual communications and a background in marketing and communications within the charity sector, I'm looking forward to supporting the valuable work of the charity.
Iryna Kotelevych
My daughter and I arrived in Great Britain in 2022 because of the war danger in Ukraine. In Ukraine, I worked in the field of accounting for more than 20 years. I have a master's degree in accounting and auditing. My gratitude to the UK for shelter and support in such a difficult time for my country knows no bounds, so I also want to be useful for the country that has become my second home. By joining Hammersley Homes, I hope to contribute my skills and knowledge to the charitable work that Hammersley Hommes does. I am infinitely grateful for the opportunity to gain new experience and be part of the company of wonderful people.
Sue Colley
I am pleased to be able to join the Hammersley Homes team and offer my admin skills and experience to facilitate general office procedures. I have worked for many years in various offices, working on finance and office management, and now I have retired, I am pleased to share my knowledge with such a worthy cause.
Jamie Russell
My Name is Jamie, Mental Health Advocate, Volunteer, and Service User for Hammersley homes. I was Diagnosed with High Functioning Autism at 13 years of age. Born and bred in Kent, and currently living in the Lymington area, I have a passion for helping and assisting people, and have a kind, caring person-centred approach to work. I have a history of volunteering which includes being a groundsman for a huge mansion in the forest. My hobbies include music, being a collector of old vinyl records, as well as being a real computer whizz.
