“I am passionate about making a difference to people with dementia having supported my father through this debilitating disease. Not only did it rob him of his memory, but also it excluded him socially. A day out with a set-up such as Tapestry Day Club would have improved his quality of life and feelings of self-worth immensely. It may have delayed his move into residential care.
“For more than 20 years, I worked in schools, both as a teacher and in marketing departments. I have been a volunteer for the Samaritans for several years. Through this, I have realised increasingly the great need for support in our communities.”
“I’m delighted to be part of the incredible work of Tapestry Day Club, helping to secure vital funding, develop meaningful partnerships and drive the strategic growth needed to strengthen our services and reach more families in need.
With over 10 years’ experience in the charity sector, I specialise in fundraising, strategic development, marketing and organisational growth, with a passion for community-based services that help bring people together.
Dementia is a cause close to my heart. I have seen first-hand the impact it can have on families through the dedication and care shown within my own family in supporting my Nan, who lived with dementia. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this amazing team, delivering a truly unique model.”
“As a former languages teacher, I have always been passionate about helping others and making a positive difference in people’s lives. I enjoy meeting new people, listening to their stories and building meaningful connections.
I also have firsthand experience of caring for a loved one living with dementia, which has given me a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by both those living with the condition and their families. Looking back, I know my Nan would have benefited enormously from the support and social connection that Tapestry provides.
I’m delighted to be joining the team in this central role and looking forward to contributing to Tapestry’s ongoing growth and success.”
“I am proud to be part of a team dedicated to providing compassionate support to people affected by dementia. I love bringing people together and building genuine connections that can make a lasting difference. Through developing meaningful partnerships across the wider community, I hope to create opportunities for those dealing with dementia to feel supported, valued and, most importantly, less alone.
With many years’ experience in the charity sector across marketing and communications, project management, partnerships, and business engagement, I hope to use my skills to support Tapestry Day Club’s growth and reach.
My previous work tackling loneliness and social isolation among older people, alongside my personal experience of caring for my mum, has given me a deep understanding of the importance of meaningful social connection and the vital role Tapestry Day Club plays for guests and their families.”
“I have been involved in pre-hospital care for 16 years through my voluntary role as a Community First Responder supporting South East Coast Ambulance Service. This involves attending 999 medical emergency calls in my local area. Through this I have gained first hand knowledge and experience of people and families living with dementia.
I have a background in audit and process improvement and have always been interested in helping people work more efficiently. My role is to help with ensuring the Charity has the appropriate policies and procedures in place, and that these are regularly reviewed and updated. I also run a small charity, and so bring my experience of this to the team.”
“I retired from a career in IT in 2018 and a couple of years later moved from West Yorkshire to West Sussex.
I now run Spire Computer Help, a local community group who give practical help to the people of Burgess Hill and surrounding areas to safely and confidently use the internet as an everyday tool. They help people who feel digitally excluded or who have limited IT knowledge to use technology that everyone else takes for granted. I also volunteers for Carers Support West Sussex and Mid Sussex Older People’s Council.
I was introduced to Tapestry Day Club in 2021 and have gradually developed a bespoke system that takes timesheet data from the TDC hosts and turns it into reports, invoices and input into an accounting and payroll systems.”
