Meet Our Trustees

We are looking for enthusiastic  people to join our board of trustees.

We are looking for people with a range of expertise and a commitment to help  continue to provide essential support to our members and Mencap ‘family’. Our volunteers are essential to the successful running of our clubs.

Do you have the skills and experience to be a trustee? Can you be free one Monday a month?

To find out more about the role and application process please contact russell@keynshammencap.org.uk.

Kath Dawson, Chairperson

“Being a Trustee and now Chairperson, is a responsibility and commitment that I relish because I can see the fantastic work that everyone involved does. Keynsham & District Mencap is a real community and I feel privileged to be involved and able to put smiles on the faces of members, help build their confidence and facilitate opportunities.

I’m a mum to my now very grown up son and step mum to two boys. I’ve lived in Keynsham and Brislington and I’ve been a regular volunteer with Mencap since the end of 2015. Early in 2018 I became a Trustee because I could see that my professional skills as a Digital Marketer could be leveraged to help support this charity that I have come to love with all my heart. 

I had no experience of learning disabilities before I became involved but as I quickly realised I had a lot to offer with my time. Its the most fulfilling and rewarding thing I’ve done. If you are reading this, consider getting involved yourself!”

Andrew Marchant, Deputy Chairperson

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Russ Pocock, Treasurer

“I brought up my family in Keynsham, and I retired from business as a director/senior manager in 2012, and in 2013 was talked into taking on the role of Treasurer at Keynsham Mencap. This was a step I have never regretted; working with great staff and fellow trustees.”

 

Charley Davis, Trustee

“I became a trustee as I believe it’s important for the younger members to be represented.  My son has been a member since he was 5 and he’s now 10 and club is a highlight of his week. However my son isn’t my only experience of disabilities, I have 3 siblings who are also members and have been for many years and I know what Keynsham Mencap means to them.

I hope that my experience of different disabilities ranging from very medically complex to challenging behaviour from both a parental and sibling point of view will be a helpful insight to the rest of the trustees and that I can gain knowledge and learn from those that have been in the role for years.”

Hazel Thompson, Trustee

“I began volunteering with the children’s groups in May 2015 before being employed as deputy play leader January 2017 to August 2020.

I started volunteering 5 years after my son who had special needs passed away. I wanted to use the wealth of my experience of raising a SENs child to be put to a good use. As a parent I also know that even an hour of rest bite is welcoming knowing your child is safely being looked after. 

Recently I returned to volunteering with Club 25 as the sessions fit in with my day job as an assistant to an MD. 

Outside of work & volunteering I enjoy keeping fit, being outdoors and socialising with family & friends. 

When I was approached to ask if I would consider being a trustee, I knew this was something I would love to do. To be able to support & run Keynsham Mencap for the benefit of all the members how could I say no. This charity along with staff and volunteers is vital for the community and I feel it is a privilege to be part of it.”

Judith Powell, Trustee

“I was brought up in keynsham and now live in Saltford with my family and 4 dogs.
I worked as bookkeeper for Keynsham District Mencap society  4 years which I  thoroughly enjoyed , and my daughter still volunteers.
 I currently work as senior finance officer for a company based in Bristol .
I hope to use some of my knowledge and experience to benefit this fantastic charity , and really look forward to being part of the team.”

Kristy T, Trustee

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Ceri Lloyd, Trustee

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Opportunities for children and adults with Learning Disabilities