I joined Validity’s UK Board in 2016 after hearing about this small but impactful organisation through the Chair of the Board. I realised my experience in charity strategy and governance could be helpful, as well as an opportunity to be part of a team making a difference at an international level. I am currently Vice Chair of the UK Board. It has been a great privilege to be part of this amazing organisation and to work with the incredible staff team and other Board members, informed by people with mental disabilities. 

It’s a cause close to my heart for various personal reasons –  I think my interest in mental health started early in childhood, much of which was spent playing in the extensive grounds of Edinburgh’s Craighouse residential mental hospital –  always overshadowed by fear of what might be going on inside for the people who lived there.

I have an MSc in Charity Finance and over 35 years of experience working with charities and their stakeholders, mainly in the UK and including disability and mental health organisations.  My work has focused on supporting organisations with strategies for impact. I also have over 30 years of experience as a trustee, including previous chair and vice-chair roles plus 9 years on NHS commissioning boards.