Our team

I oversee the services and projects that Ruils run and make sure that we are delivering the services that our clients want and need. I have been with Ruils in various roles for 19 years now and have been working with a great team of trustees, staff and volunteers to develop services that support individuals to live the life of their choice. My background is in Health Psychology and I have worked in the private medical health sector as well as being a recruitment consultant. I have two teenage boys and spend a lot of time ferrying them around or standing on the side of football and rugby pitches. I love reading and walking and travelling to new places.

I joined the Ruils team in October of 2018 to help coordinate FriendBee, our SEND Befriending Service and have stepped into the Campaigns and Communications Manager role. I have previously worked as a fundraiser and project manager for charities in London and the US. I am Disabled myself and passionate about eliminating the stigma surrounding Disability. I love that my role allows me to work alongside the Disabled community in SW London to push for change. In my spare time I enjoy water colouring, travelling, going to the theatre and just generally being around cute animals.

I joined Ruils in 2016 as our first fundraiser, at a time when council funding was being cut and Ruils was determined to continue providing much-needed services to local disabled people.  We work hard to maximise funding from local and national funders, and community fundraising, so that we can support over 4,000 clients each year.  My day might involve filling in an application for a big grant from the National Lottery, trekking the Thames Path for Ruils, carol singing at Richmond station or cheering marathon runners. I love the variety, and whilst I may be the only dedicated fundraiser, the whole Ruils team gets involved in making sure our services are funded each year. I work part-time and my spare time sees me running (not that fast, sometimes for Ruils), swimming, reading, enjoying family & friend time and planning my next trip.

I joined Ruils in December 2021 with over 20 years’ experience in financial management roles within the Not-for-Profit sector. I’m passionate about the charity and ensuring that the funding is spent in the most appropriate manner with the upmost benefit to our clients. It’s a great opportunity to work with such dedicated and friendly individuals and see the impact they are making across the local community.

I joined Ruils in 2020 and have just stepped into the Adult Services Manager role. I am keen to ensure my team have what they need to be able to support clients adequately and enable them to live life more independently. In my spare time I enjoy walking around Richmond Park and spend most weekends out and about with friends and family.

Having been volunteering for a year with Ruils since the beginning of the pandemic, I was encouraged to apply for the Community and Volunteer Manager position. Up until that point I had worked in the commercial media sector for Reuters and Bloomberg. I had had a great career at these two fantastic companies, but had reached a stage of my life where I wanted a completely new challenge and to give back to my local community in a way that helped enriched people’s lives. My time as a volunteer opened my eyes to what a secret gem of a charity Ruils is. Ruils do incredible work in the community supporting disabled children and adults and the elderly to live independent lives. My work as Ruils’ Community and Volunteer Manager enables me to facilitate the delivery of a Befriending service, as well as a multitude of activities that include a theatre workshop, an allotment, a creative writing group, well-being walks and others as well. And the cherry on the cake, after 25 years of trains and tubes in Central London, I have a 10-minute walk to work!

I joined Ruils in October 2019 and I work on the Pathways service as a Case Worker. This project provides advice and advocacy on benefits, housing and social care. Since starting at Ruils, I have learned that the benefits and housing system can be a complete minefield to navigate. I hope this service can therefore provide people with the support and confidence they need and deserve. Prior to Ruils, I graduated in 2018 with a degree in history and philosophy. However, I’ve always been passionate about following a career path that would enable me to contribute positive change to people’s lives. Having said this, I am no stranger to the voluntary sector! I have volunteered abroad in hospitals and I have also been a part of multiple fundraising events during my educational years. The things I love most in life is good coffee, my dog, family, friends and travelling!

I joined Ruils in November 2023, to work alongside Emily on the Pathways service. Over the next 18 months I will be learning to advise and advocate for clients with housing, welfare benefits and social care needs. I previously studied social care, and have had personal experience caring and advocating for people with SEN and disabilities. I am looking forward to utilising my personal experiences and education to help the wider community. In my spare time I enjoy west end musicals, and one day hope to star on the Great British bake off.

I joined the Ruils team in September 2018. I work as the Adult Services Office Administrator and enjoy helping the team with the day to day running of their services. I’ve previously worked in administrative roles and understand it’s important to be organised and accurate. I have two children who keep me busy, I also enjoy reading and cooking for friends and family.

I joined Ruils in May 2021 as an Office Administrator and have since moved into the Digital Projects Coordinator role. As a recent university graduate it has been great bringing the skills I developed there to assist the Ruils staff and gain new experience. In my spare time I’m usually playing video games, walking my dog, or turning my room into a jungle by filling it with houseplants.

I am now working as a  Direct Payment Lead, but joined the Ruils team in 2024 as an Independent Living Advisor. I studied Journalism in South Africa, where I grew up. My focus was; interventions for under-resourced schools and ECD (Early Childhood Development) centres in Makhanda. I have since worked as a freelance writer, a SEND tutor and teaching assistant. I feel privileged to work alongside the kind, diligent, and community-driven people at Ruils, helping people take control of their care and support. In my spare time, I love writing, kayaking, and connecting with friends and family.

I joined Ruils in July 2023 as an Independent Living Adviser in Richmond. I’ve always had a passion for supporting people and my background in community work and volunteering has helped me explore this passion and get the experience I need to support residents confidentially. Outside of work I enjoy going swimming and spending time with friends and family.

I joined Ruils Direct Payment Team as an Independent Living Advisor in the beginning of July 2022. I come from a huge multinational family with various degrees of challenges. We spent a lot of time with my grandparents in Portugal, where being different was the norm. They always pushed us to be the best we could be and achieve full potential regardless of race or ability. As an adult I balanced successful careers within Hospitality Project Management, Banking and Teaching with Fostering. I have been providing young people with a home, providing mentoring and advocacy for over 30 years. During Lockdown I started volunteering full time with The Works of Love at The Vineyard, The People Hive and Makers United. The buzz that you get from helping others help themselves is second to none. Enabling people to exceed expectations, beat the odds and thrive is my goal.

I joined the Ruils team in April 2021. My role involves administering payroll for the FriendBee service, and managing accounts for the Direct Payments team. I previously worked for a small, grass-roots children’s charity where I developed a soft-spot for the third sector. Ruils has given me a platform to jump beyond myself; supporting and developing my skillset and training. In my spare time I enjoy devouring new music, and adding to my vinyl collection.

I joined Ruils in July 2018 to monitor the accounts for the Direct Payments service. Since then I have taken over the Payroll Service in Richmond. I have a lot of experience with Direct Payments and accounts, and I am thoroughly enjoying administering the Payroll Service, liaising with clients, their PAs and HMRC. Direct Payments allow clients choice and control over who provides support within their home and I enjoy the empowering independence we give back to our clients. I like to spend time with family and friends and I enjoy relaxing in my garden with a good book and a coffee.

After a career as an accountant, and having worked as a Mental Health Support Worker, I joined Ruils in March 2024 as an Independent Living Advisor. Working with people to maintain – and enhance – their independence is a very enjoyable role. I’m now a Team Lead and enjoy supporting my colleagues and drawing on my experiences while still working with clients. Outside of work I’m training to be a counsellor and enjoy listening to and playing music, and going for long walks around South West London.

I have only recently joined Ruils and look after the Managed Accounts for Wandsworth. My background is varied, it includes an Advisor at the Citizens Advice Bureau, Trading Standards and the Civil Service. I have also coached Formation Skydiving and competed abroad in 4-way Formation Skydiving representing GB. Having retired from that hobby I now enjoy hiking and spend the majority of my spare time trying to convince my wife we need a dog… stay tuned for updates.

I joined Ruils in November 2021 to cover the Payroll Service for Richmond whilst my colleague was on maternity leave. I have over 10 years payroll experience but have never worked in the third sector before. I am thoroughly enjoying learning about direct payments and how it enables people to live more independently. Since my colleague has returned from her maternity leave, I have been given the opportunity to administer the Payroll Service for Wandsworth. The process is just beginning and I’m excited to continue helping clients to meet their needs as employers. In my spare time, I enjoy going on walks with my dog Bailey.

I came on board as a Finance Assistant in March 2024. My role involves handling the accounts payable as well as helping the Wandsworth Managed Accounts team with processing the payments & account management. I have a background in public accounting and am now happy to have this opportunity to work at Ruils and contribute towards making a difference in our community. When I am not working, I am busy being a mom to two lovely daughters. I also love travelling, going on walks & hikes with friends and enjoy tennis.

I joined the Children’s Team as Manager in May 2022, and what a dedicated and dynamic team they are! They are not only a committed SEND team but most importantly many are parents with lived experience. The families and young people we support couldn’t be in better hands. It’s also fantastic to be part of the wider Ruils family. This was a big change in direction for me as I previously worked for Age UK Richmond for 13 years, not to mention many more years in my distant past as a fundraiser! Outside of work I have two grown up daughters and various pets.

I joined Ruils in September 2014 as a SEND Advisor helping families move from Statements of Educational Need to the newly established Education Health and Care Plans. I have two children and have lived in Twickenham for almost 20 years. Before our first child arrived, I worked as a professional actor and I am more than happy to bore anyone who asks (and many who don’t) with details of my adventures on stage and screen. Since 2006, I have been the full-time carer for my son, Alfie. I am a born again fitness fanatic, occasional skydiver and Shakespeare obsessive.

I started in Ruils in 2022 as a SEND advisor. I am very pleased to be part of our dedicated Children’s team and also really enjoy being part of the wider Ruils team, providing joined up support to meet the needs of parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities.

I joined Ruils in February 2020 as a Social Prescribing Link Worker. I have now transitioned to the role of Friendbee Coordinator. In the past, I was also a befriender with Ruils, which has given me first-hand experience of the role. My own experience as a carer and previous role supporting children with SEND, has led me to be passionate about empowering people to take control of their lives and live independently. I believe everyone should feel they have choices and have opportunities to be involved in their community. Personally, I enjoy spending time outside, reading, and baking. I also love musical theatre and occasionally perform myself.

I joined the Ruils in April 2019. I run Hounslow SEND Family Matters and support families who have children with special educational needs. Prior to this, I spent 13 years working with Mencap in a similar field in Ealing, Hounslow and Hillingdon. In between, I also had a brief stint in Mumbai, India working for a charity supporting entrepreneurs from small towns. I have a Master’s degree in Psychology. I like travelling, playing badminton and going on long walks. I am very happy to be a part of the Ruils team to support families in the community.

I had the privilege of joining the Ruils SEND Family Matters Team in December 2020. In a previous life, I studied Fine Arts and worked in oriental carpet restoration. My more recent role as Family Matters Advisor seems a logical progression from many years spent as a registered childminder, community group volunteer and parent to three children. I feel my dedication and love for the job comes from lived experience of raising two children with SEND and a deep desire to offer support and understanding to families of children with additional needs. I love to read, indulge my love of learning, and can regularly be found unwinding with my cat and a good podcast.

I have worked at Ruils since 2010 in varied roles and loved every minute being part of a team of passionate and dedicated individuals. I am parent to two children, the older of whom is a disabled young adult. My work, therefore, has invariably been both a professional and personal investment and one that has brought me great joy. A few years ago now, I spent some time away from Ruils living abroad, but on my return there was no other place I would rather have worked and so I came back to the role I hold today, as a Family Matters Advisor.  I am also a BACP registered counsellor and this has added a valuable dimension to my work at Ruils. My free time is spent  working in counselling with adults and young people and when I am not donning my counsellor hat, I am buying books that adorn my bookshelf with every intention of being read.

I joined Ruils in July 2014 to continue co-ordinating the Sitting and Befriending Service when the Three Wings Trust sadly closed and this part of the operation was transferred to Ruils. I had been running the service for 9 years in which time it has grown from supporting just a small number of families with a handful of sitters/befrienders to now supporting over 80 families with more than 40 sitters/befrienders. I am delighted that Ruils embraced the service – personally, to be part of a dynamic and supportive team – and that families with children and young people with disabilities in the Borough will continue to benefit from the service. I am married with 3 children and my youngest, Sophie (now 16) is disabled. It was having Sophie that inspired me to pursue this career after an earlier career in computer technical support. Outside of work I love yoga and go dancing once a week which is based on Strictly! At home, I enjoy reading and have discovered Kindle. I also love watching all the junk TV that my husband hates.

I joined the Ruils team in June 2019 to provide administrative support to the children’s services team. My role here involves coordinating workshops on a wide variety of topics of interest to our clients, as well as supporting the team in the day to day running of our services for families across Richmond, Hounslow and Kingston. My background is in public and media relations and I have previously worked with a number of charities in the health sector as well as the Department of Health and Home Office. I have two young children and spend a lot of time in my other role as chief taxi driver! I’m a keen pianist and love musical theatre, dining out and entertaining. I’m delighted to have joined a charity helping individuals to live more independently and look forward to developing our services further.

Having worked in Social Prescribing at Ruils for over 2 years, I am excited to take on an exciting new challenge, The Health in Your Hands Project. Prior to my time at Ruils, I studied Psychology at Winchester University, worked in care and school settings and qualified as a practitioner in Therapeutic Play Skills. I truly love working with people one-to-one, tapping into their strengths and empowering them to find the confidence to make those positive changes to improve their health and wellbeing. I aim to bring this passion and enthusiasm to this new role.  In my spare time I enjoy baking, especially accompanied by an epic playlist. And it is worth noting I have an unhealthy obsession with cats, dogs and Harry Styles!

Ever seen me in a community space and wondered, “who is that man in the Ruils t-shirt and what on earth is he doing here?” Well wonder no more; I’m Euan and I work as a Wellbeing Coordinator on Ruils’ Health In Your Hands project. I first joined this merry band back in September 2020 as a Project Assistant supporting our Community Services, moving across to work on Health In Your Hands full time as of April 2024. I work with clients referred from GP surgeries and perform basic health checks in community spaces across the borough, finding more clients this way. Together we identify areas of their health that we can work on together to improve. This people-centred approach brings me such joy and it’s always exciting meeting new clients and going on this journey with them. I was born and grew up in Kingston, and stayed there while I studied Latin and Ancient Greek at University College London. Before joining Ruils, I was living and working in a small city in Japan as a high school English teacher. When I’m not out and about exploring somewhere new, you’ll most likely find me enjoying classic movies, collecting trading cards and convincing myself to make some progress with that book I’ve been reading for the past five years…

Moving on from the role of Social Prescriber at Ruils to Community Health and Wellbeing Worker is an exciting challenge, involving reaching out to support people reach their potential, discover new opportunities and help to manage their health and wellbeing according to their own priorities and needs. I feel privileged and excited to be part of a new project and continuing to work with such a dedicated and motivated group of colleagues. Outside of work, I love the outdoors and spend as much time as I can on my bike or walking in our beautiful Borough.

After a long career in Financial Services, the desire for a complete change has led me to join Ruils as a Community Health and Wellbeing Worker. I am excited to get involved in the Local Community as part of the team as soon as possible. A longstanding Hampton resident, I am passionate about helping local people to be able to live full and rewarding lives, whilst helping to make positive change. I am interested in the promotion of Healthy Living, Nutrition and understanding Sports Psychology. I enjoy playing football, refereeing, cross-fit training and regularly participate in parkrun, having completed 200 plus at Bushy Park. I have been involved in Youth football as a Coach, Referee and Club Chairman for over 20 years and over this time I have made many lifelong friendships. A keen Hampton and Richmond Borough FC supporter, you are likely to find me at Beveree on a Saturday afternoon.

I joined Ruils in February 2020 as part of the new Social Prescribing Team.  Previously working within the tourism, hospitality, healthcare and voluntary sectors gave me a variety of skills and experience which I bring to this diverse and evolving role. It’s very rewarding to be a part of such a fantastic team within a great organisation that makes a real difference in our community and empowers people to best live the life they wish for themselves. Living locally with my partner, I enjoy cooking (and eating!), yoga and reading

I started volunteering with the Befriending service in June 2022 and in March 2023 I started working for Ruils as a Social Prescribing Link Worker. Every day in this job is different because of the range of clients and services I interact with. As a Social Prescriber I work with clients who bravely let me into their lives and am surrounded by an incredible team who are always available to offer support. It’s a role that offers me a great deal of personal satisfaction and opportunities for learning and growth. I am a very lucky mum of three wonderful people. My hobbies are reading books, buying books and finding books to then buy and read. My shelves are also stacked with notepads of my own ideas as I dream of writing my own story one day.

I joined Ruils in January 2021 as a Social Prescribing Link Worker. Previously I have worked for many years as an Employment Specialist and Advisor within NHS Community Mental Health Teams in Richmond and Twickenham, supporting and advising people with Mental Health and other disabilities into jobs and sustaining work and education. I worked as a learning support volunteer teaching English and mentoring refugees and asylum seekers in Kingston as well as an IT support consultant and had an enjoyable spell working and living in France and the Netherlands. I have an interest in psychotherapy and would like to build and develop and use skills in psychological wellbeing. I enjoy sport including tennis and rowing and am an avid film fan.

In July 2023, I was delighted to join the Ruils Proactive Anticipatory Care (PAC) team as a Care Coordinator in the Richmond PCN. My background is quite diverse but the PAC Care Coordinator role utilises many of the skills I’ve learned along the way. I worked as a live-in carer for a year when I first moved to the UK. In South Africa, I was Operations Coordinator at a vegan cosmetics company and Research Assistant at a renewable energy fund. As a student, I was involved in awareness raising, event planning and fundraising for a number of causes, including LGBT and anti-GBV initiatives and a stem-cell donor recruitment NPO. In my spare time, I enjoy going to concerts, knitting or exploring my new home of London.

I was delighted to join the Ruils team as a Social Prescribing Link Worker in June 2023. Having grown up in Twickenham, it is an exciting opportunity to give back to the local community. I have always worked in the health and care sector, starting by working in a pharmacy when I left school, and more recently, working as a domestic carer. It is extremely rewarding to be able to give more to clients and help them live their lives more independently and with access to all the support we are able to offer within the local area. In my spare time, I am found making memories with my two young children.

I had the pleasure of joining the Ruils family in June 2021 working in the Proactive Anticipatory Care team as a Care Coordinator. My background over the past 20 years has been in schools and social care, working alongside other professionals supporting and empowering families to facilitate change using a holistic approach. In my spare time I like to take my dogs on long walks and spend time with the family. At the weekends you can often find me sat on the sofa watching football, F1 or rugby!

I am delighted to be part of the Ruils Team for Social Prescribing. Having lived near and visited Richmond nearly all of my life, it is an honour to now work as part of the community and bring attention to all the wonderful services available here. I believe passionately in giving people time and space to talk about what is important to them, lending a listening ear to those who need it most in order to connect and work together to improve their overall health and wellbeing. I also thoroughly enjoy my role as a Befriender for Ruils and in my spare time I can be found doing this too. I am also an avid music lover, gig-goer and art/ food enthusiast! I love to travel and have new experiences and meet new people all over the world.

I joined Ruils in July 2023 as a PAC Care Coordinator covering the West Twickenham area. My background has been both clinical and administrative. I graduated as a qualified nurse (RGN) with a BSc Hons Degree and nursed in both public and private sectors. From there I moved on to various roles in the Department of Health, working on medically related policy and later, the Department for Education working on policy surrounding Children in Need and Families. I took a career break to bring up 4 very active children, thankfully all now young adults, and felt it was a great time to get back to my first love of working with people and managing their care in a truly holistic way. I love music, especially Soul & R&B, pottering in my garden, spending time with my family and keep fit classes at the gym, when time allows!

I was delighted to start at Ruils in December 2023 as a Social Prescribing Link Worker. I previously worked as a GP Receptionist for over 2 years and learnt more about the role of social prescribing and what it entails through working closely with the Link Worker there. Working for the GP surgery has shown me many barriers that GP Surgeries face and how Social Prescribing can help to alleviate some of the strain put on GP’s by helping patients with their non-medical and social needs. As someone with dyslexia, dyspraxia and autism I hope to be able to help people like me feel empowered and confident to live independent lives in the East Twickenham area.

I joined Ruils in February 2024 as a Social Prescriber, where I very much look forward to utilising skills I have learnt through mentoring and looking after children with Autism and Mental health difficulties. I have lived in Richmond Borough my whole life so I am eager to link people up with the wonderful services we have here. I really enjoy helping people to become the best versions of themselves, through the person-centred approach which is at the heart of all Ruils’ interactions with clients. Apart from my academic interests in the social sciences, I enjoy finding new restaurants, and trying to replicate their recipes (albeit with little success!).

I joined Ruils in late November 2023 as the new PAC Care Coordinator for the East Twickenham PCN. I previously worked as a healthcare assistant in a rural hospital in the expansive and beautiful region of Otago, New Zealand. My background continues to extend to hospital work as before working in a rural hospital, I also worked as a healthcare assistant at a major metropolitan hospital. I have loved caring for people and this care coordinator role, I felt, was only a natural progression. Nonetheless, in my spare time I am a competitive rower, enjoy reading history and literature, collecting stationery and practising calligraphy. Finally, since I have moved to London from New Zealand, I will be taking advantage of the ease of travel and will explore extensively both the United Kingdom and abroad.

I had the pleasure of joining Ruils and becoming a Social Prescribing Link Worker in 2023. I look forward to supporting the Kew, Sheen and Barnes PCN and contributing to a well established social prescribing landscape across this community. I have experience of being a service user as I self-referred to Dose of Nature, a local charity that does 8 week prescriptions in nature, during the Covid-19 pandemic. I’ve also worked in Arts and Education for over 20 years, most recently as a creative producer for a local dance charity specialising in wellbeing and arts activities in the community. I have 3 children who are in their late teens/ early 20’s who are now more or less independent. I enjoy travelling, swimming, walking and I fully intend to keep teaching yoga into my dotage.

I joined Ruils in July 2023 having spent most of my career in education, mainly working in pastoral support, particularly at SEN specialist schools and with early years, most recently at a forest nursery school for children. I have a degree in History and Heritage Management and I’m a qualified Massage Therapist and Reflexologist. Therapeutic roles have included volunteering giving massages to the homeless and the elderly. Having struggled with dyslexia, dyscalculia and ADHD at school, I have the experience of living with a hidden disability. My motivation in joining Ruils is to make a real difference to people’s lives and enable them to widen their life choices. I feel proud to have joined the team at Ruils. When I am not working, I enjoy doing yoga (preferably in the park), reading, poetry, walking, or singing with my choir.

Joining Ruils, as a Social Prescribing Link Worker, was a great start to 2024 for me. I had a magnetic pull towards the role and the charity – I’m in awe of its energy and ethos, whereby everyone strives towards making a positive difference to empower others, improve situations and the quality of people’s lives. My background is in publishing. I spent a decade working as an Editor for BBC Worldwide, then freelanced as a Writer on educational publications. As a storyteller at heart, it’s my ambition to be able to tell success stories from my role as a Social Prescribing Link Worker – being part of a chapter of change, for the better, in a person’s life. I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter and son. I love socialising with my friends, creative writing, going for long bike rides, yoga and baking. I’ve got quite a sweet tooth!

I joined Ruils in January 2024 and will be working in the PAC Team for the Sheen and Barnes area. I previously worked in education, social care and social work, and feel this experience will be transferable in my role as PAC Care coordinator. I feel passionate about advocating, empowering and supporting others during difficult periods of their lives. In my spare time I enjoy keeping active, going to gigs, and the theatre and love a good horror film.

Etan is currently on Maternity Leave.

I joined the Social Prescribing team at Ruils in September 2023, after being made aware of the amazing work they do through a friend. Whilst my background is not the most conventional path into this role, having spent the past 6 years working in Advertising, I love listening to people and problem solving and wanted to do a more meaningful job that makes a difference. Having family members with disabilities and mental health issues has shown me the importance of community and having a good network around you, so I really believe in the work Ruils does and am excited to be part of their journey. In my spare time I love pottering about London, seeing friends, visiting galleries, finding new places to eat and binge-watching Real Housewives.

I joined Ruils in November 2023 as one of the Social Prescribing Link Workers. I previously worked as a GP receptionist for 4 years which allowed me to see the positive impact Social Prescribing can have on both patients and doctors. My favourite parts of working at the surgery were building relationships with patients and actively listening to try to come up with the best solutions to their problems. I felt progressing to Social Prescribing would allow me to become more active with patient care. Alongside my role at the GP surgery, I completed a foundation course in Counselling and Therapy which I feel really helps me in my current role. I have also been part of the volunteer team at Ruils helping at the Art Club.

I am delighted to have just joined the Social Prescribing team. What drew me to Ruils was experiencing the care and support I have received in supporting my elderly parents and I am inspired by how the Ruils services in the community empower individuals to live independently. In my free time I am kept busy supporting my parents and walking my dog and chauffeuring my teenage son.

I was excited to join the Ruils team in March 2023 as a Social Prescribing Link Worker. I really enjoy working with people to identify what matters to them the most and supporting them to achieve their own personal growth and development, in a way that helps people grow and become independent in the community. I have put this into practice as a Community Link Worker within the Criminal Justice System, I have also trained within a Criminology background at university and in a professional role within prison and community-based work. My passion is to support individuals with growing their self-esteem and independence when someone is needing it the most. I look forward to supporting all client on their journey to having independent living and strengthening their personal power. I enjoy staying active in my spare time.

I joined Ruils in 2023 as a PAC Care Coordinator. My country of origin is Poland, where I earned Master’s Degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. I have worked for several years in a hospital setting with people who suffered stroke or brain injury and also as a CBT psychotherapist. After moving to England I was learning new skills through employment in Hospitality, Customer Care and Retail Administration. I feel privileged to be able to contribute to wellbeing of community members and work along people who are so dedicated and passionate. In my free time I love reading, socialising, traveling and learning about different cultures.

I have been disabled most of my life with Polio and have always wanted to support people with disabilities and therefore feel privileged to be a trustee with Ruils. Working in the Telecoms industry for over 30 years, which has involved taking on roles within sales, service delivery, network support and project management has enabled me to develop many skill sets. My last main role was working for Surrey County Council implementing a project role across the borough for Adult Social Care. Travel has been one of my passions and I have been really fortunate to travel to many parts of the world, with Africa being my most favorite. I also love sport and manage to play wheelchair tennis on a regular basis, ever the optimist that I will win a match one day! Home is with Max the pug – 2 crazy Burmese cats and my daughter Isabella who is adopted from Guatemala and a feisty teenager!

I have been very privileged to be a Chairman in the NHS for the last 20 years and have had the opportunity to support the commissioning and delivery of health services in South West London. Being Chairman of Kingston Hospital and Hounslow & Richmond Community Trust allowed me to work with two skilled Boards and our extraordinary staff to deliver outstanding services to our population. Health services play a critical role in supporting the health and well being of people but I am only to aware that it is only one small part. I am deeply motivated and inspired by working with staff to deliver the best services possible. I have spent my whole working life ensuring that the life chances of people are supported. I value working in partnerships and collaborating with clients, patients and organisations to deliver quality services. I know I have a lot to learn in joining Ruils but I also hope that my skills will be of help in ensuring this wonderful organisation continues to thrive, deliver and develop to meet the ever changing demands and challenges.

I have suffered from long term mental health issues as well as epilepsy and spinal issues. I have lived on the streets, sold the big issue and have fought for help at every stage my life. Joining Ruils as a Volunteer Befriender has changed my life, introducing me to the most amazing people who just like me love helping others. 2019 has been the best year of my life as the Volunteer Project Lead of “Bridging the Gap” designed to help people with Mental Health conditions, something I could not have done without their support, and which has given me so much more self-esteem and belief in myself. Most of my time is devoted to helping others, but I also enjoy art, crafting, gaming and collecting old London Market tokens.

I am a CIMA qualified accountant with experience gained in both the private and public sectors. I am keen to utilise my business and financial skills to support RUILS as its Treasurer and to help it develop and broaden the many valuable services it provides for its users and members. I have lived in Teddington for 17 years with my husband Sean. I enjoy travelling, spending time outdoors, baking and current affairs. I am also an auditor on a pro-bono basis for two local churches.

I am a chartered accountant with expansive experience of working in business and with charities throughout my career. Even at 75 years young, I continue to offer my expertise to charities and businesses and I am delighted to be on-board with Ruils. I served in the Royal Navy as an officer before embarking upon a career in accountancy. I served as an Honorary Steward at The All England Tennis Club for 35 years and as Chief Steward for 15 years until I finally retired in 2012. During this time, I worked closely with the Club to help improve facilities and access for disabled people. I have developed further empathy and insight through my close relationship with my nephew who suffered a spinal injury following a climbing accident 12 years ago. I was astounded but honoured to be appointed a MBE in the 2012 New Year’s Honours list. I am keen to bring my significant business experience and professional financial guidance to Ruils and help the Charity meet and overcome the challenges that inevitably lie ahead.

As a state registered nurse and midwife, Debbie has 21 years experience of the NHS. Her charity works includes 9 years as a volunteer for the Heart Foundation and the Baby Trust and other work experience that of an Administrative Secretary to a Barrister. Debbie has been in receipt of Direct Payments since 2004 and is a vocal advocate of the personal freedom and independence that the scheme offers.

I became a wheelchair user after a life of camping, cycling and working in childcare. My passion lies in equipping people with the knowledge they require to shape their own lives by passing on the knowledge I have gained through work, personal experience and research. I have experience working with social services, Richmond CCG and Richmond Council. I have a wealth of knowledge, experience and understanding of Direct Payments; self directed support, children with additional needs, mental health, physical difficulties, palliative care and all issues surrounding being an employer. I prides myself in being reliable, trustworthy and trying my best at everything that she does. Through volunteering, I came to understand the values and work that is delivered by Ruils and I feel that my passions are enshrined within theirs. My interests include swimming, photography, travelling, having fun and watching Formula 1 motor racing.

I have a background in working with people with learning disabilities, running projects that aim to use drama to solve problems in people’s lives as well as raise awareness of issues such as Disability Hate Crime. I have a disability myself, MS. My interests lie in using theatre as a tool for social change, to enable people to use their voice and as a platform for debate. It was through making a play that tells the real stories of disabled people and full-time carers, in partnership with Ruils, that I got to know the organisation. I believe in the values of Ruils and I care about the rights of people with disabilities. I hope I bring creativity and also political awareness to the role of trustee. I live in Teddington and I enjoy going to local parks and making use of leisure facilities.

I currently work for a leading technology and research company where I work with business leaders and help them to transform their business by delivering strategic advice and guiding them on creating and executing their strategies that are underpinned by technology. Prior to that I spent most of his career based in Teddington and Twickenham working for Haymarket Media Group, where I was a member of the Group Executive team and a divisional Managing Director. It is this experience of working with boards and leadership teams that I hope to contribute to the Trustee board as Ruils continues to secure its future and deliver quality services. I’m a passionate believer in the benefits and solutions that can be delivered by locally created and governed services I live in Teddington with my wife and 3 children, aged 16, 14 and 11. I spend most of my spare time doing something related to sport. Either participating (not as much as I want), watching the efforts of my children or coaching a local boys’ team.

I am the parent of two daughters, one of them disabled. My disabled daughter has been through the Richmond school system and is now transitioning to adult services. A number of years ago, I was a school governor at a special school in Kingston-upon-Thames and a member of Richmond’s parent carer forum and I continue to work in an ad hoc fashion with childrens and adult services in our borough to improve provision. As a result, I am knowledgeable about the Local Offer for children with special needs and I’m becoming familiar with local adult social care provision as well. My family has been active in fundraising for Ruils for over ten years and I’m very pleased to be able to increase my support by becoming a Ruils trustee. I passionately believe in the valuable work that Ruils does to support our local community and in the energy and enthusiasm of Ruils’ staff. My skills lie mainly in the legal, analytical, administrative and strategic areas and I hope that these will be of assistance to Ruils as it changes and grows. I began my career at an international organisation in Munich, Germany, where I worked for 8 years, before returning to the UK to work as a patent attorney. I was employed by a couple of well-known, multinational companies for about 15 years, before becoming self-employed in order to have the flexibility to care for our children and acquire a floppy-eared, golden spaniel called Zeppo. I enjoy an eclectic mix of pursuits, including cycling, hiking, accompanying Zeppo on his walks, cooking and reading depressing German novels.

Prior to joining Ruils as a Trustee, I worked for the NHS, in the charity sector and have volunteered in various roles within social housing. I am also is an active member of the Richmond Coproduction Group. I discovered Ruils several years ago and have been involved with the “Bridging the Gap” project, a mental health resource and signposting guide. Despite the obstacles and challenges I have faced in my own life, I have found that with the right help and support I have been able to overcome them. I am delighted to use my knowledge and experience to enable Ruils to continue to deliver person centred services and activities to all client groups.

I’m a communications leader with over 12 years’ experience across all areas of comms, from media to campaigns and strategy. I’ve worked in both the charity and Government sectors, and always aim to bring people together to drive action and change. I have lived with cerebral palsy all my life so try to use my lived experience to challenge the status quo and highlight both the barriers to inclusion and opportunities that are presented as part of everyday life that others sometimes take for granted. I have a real passion for making information and spaces accessible to all and am a strong believer in the ‘Nothing About us Without Us’ approach! I’ve lived in Teddington for many years and have first-hand experience of the support available to disabled people in the area, and the benefits this brings to the wider community. My hope is that, as a Trustee for Ruils, I can provide that support to those who need it and work with the whole organisation to empower people to live independently.

I have been a wheelchair user since February 2007 when I suffered a sub arachnoid haemorrhage. Originally from South Africa, I came to the UK in 2000 and started working in the Events Industry. I thrive on making things happen. I have enjoyed volunteering at Ruils and Richmond Aid as an Admin Volunteer for the past 14 years. I love reading books and have joined 2 book groups. I enjoy keeping up with what is going on in the World through newspapers and news websites. I also enjoy going to the theatre, cinema, exhibitions, art galleries and museums, photography and going to places for live performances. I enjoy enhancing people’s lives by suggesting places to go (that are accessible of course).