Last summer we announced a new and exciting project to help with member engagement across the country – regional representatives that would provide a good listening ear for local charities and give focused signposting to the Almshouse Association services that are available to all members, plus help direct members to the right person at The Association that can provide additional support and guidance if needed.

This new Regional Champions project has now been launched and we’re delighted to announce that the first seven volunteers have been selected.

The newly appointed Regional Champions are:

  • Richard Knipe, The Spalding Almshouse Charity – Lincolnshire
  • Anya Mathewson, Mulberry Property Management – Yorkshire
  • Paul Mullis, Durham Aged Mineworkers’ Homes Association – County Durham, Tyne and Wear, Northumberland and Scotland
  • David Healey, Sir Josiah Mason Trust – Birmingham, West Midlands and Warwickshire
  • Joe Waters, Eventide Homes – Dorset, Hampshire and Isle of Wight
  • Karen Percival, Okehampton United Charity – Devon and Cornwall
  • Susie Coen, Salisbury City Almshouse & Welfare Charities – Wiltshire

All currently work for or are trustees of almshouse charities in their respective regions and bring with them a wealth of experience in the almshouse sector. They will be in touch with charities in their regions over the coming months to organise regional get-togethers, coronavirus restrictions allowing.

In time, we hope to have 20 Regional Champions covering the whole of the United Kingdom and we will announce further details when available. 

The role of the Regional Champion is to support the Association in engaging with members, providing local expertise and identifying those charities that might need a little extra support from the team at Billingbear Lodge. They will also provide support with our fundraising activities.

Posted November 2020