Alison

GPimhs Lived Experience Practitioner (Epsom & Ewell)

Alison joined MFT in June 2024 as a GPimhs Lived Experience Practitioner. She provides peer support and practical assistance to help people regain control of their lives and supports them to achieve a better quality of life, despite their mental health difficulties.

She is based within the Integrated Care Partnership (ICP) GPimhs (GP Integrated Mental Health Service) team in Epsom and Ewell.

Alison has a Masters in Counselling Psychology and a background in counselling. She is working towards accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and is a member of the British Psychological Society.

She has a son with autism who is the most wonderful and unique young man, and she is honoured to be his mum.

Alison enjoys photography and art, as well as going on adventures with her son.

Annabelle

Social Prescribing Link Worker (Banstead)

Annabelle joined MFT in August 2024 as a Social Prescriber based at GP practices in the Banstead area. Her role includes empowering individuals to take control of their wellbeing holistically through personalised support, community engagement, practical guidance and signposting to clinical professionals where needed.

Annabelle has a Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Psychology and a Distinction in her Masters Degree in Psychological Therapies. Her academic interest and research lies within exploring the unconventional concept of ASMR and its function within mental wellness. Her aspirations include completing a Clinical Psychology Doctorate to eventually become a Clinical Psychologist. She has worked closely alongside the NHS and private sector charities to help and coach individuals to enhance their long term mental health and quality of life.

In her spare time, Annabelle enjoys learning new things and develop new skills. She is currently learning to speak Spanish and is exploring how to create and produce music.

Ashleigh

Team Manager, Community Connections & Financial and Wellbeing Support Service (Leatherhead)

Ashleigh joined MFT in July 2024 as our Team Manager, responsible for the management and development of the Community Connections Service across Surrey Downs and the Financial Wellbeing Service within the Epsom and Ewell area.

Ashleigh has supported the successful delivery of several employability and wellbeing contracts in the South of England. Initially working with individuals suffering from a range of mental and physical health conditions, predominantly mental health, before going on create Community Partnership Networks and localised engagement strategies to suit the requirements of each community he has served.

In order to maintain his wellbeing Ashleigh enjoys nothing more than spending time with his partner and their 3 young children. While he regularly takes time out to go on hiking trips around the UK with friends, and enjoys watching and playing sport in his free time.

Biba

Fundraising Officer (Home-based)

Biba joins MFT in September 2021 as our Fundraising Officer. She looks after all aspects of our fundraising as well as developing and maintaining positive long-term relationships with our community supporters.

For her wellbeing, Biba enjoys long walks or a run with her dog, watching her teenagers play sport and going for a paddle on her new SUP whenever the weather allows.

E: biba@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
M: 07877 846392

Carlota

Safe Harbour Practitioner (Epsom)

As a Safe Harbour practitioner, Carlota coordinates and leads on activities and support groups as well as carrying out one to one support sessions for people using the service face to face, online, and by telephone. She supports individuals to avoid escalation, manage and prevent crisis, better manage their mental health, stabilize, and build resilience.

Carlota studied Psychology at university and is currently finishing her Master’s in Health Psychology. She has previously worked as an In-Reach worker, supporting individuals that were discharged from hospital wards, to enable a better integration in the community and as a support worker for individuals with autism and learning disabilities. Carlota also volunteered in Kenya, India, and Colombia, supporting young adults with mental disabilities.

To look after her wellbeing, Carlota loves playing the guitar and piano, listening to music and taking photos with her camera in nature.

E: safeharbour@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Chloé

Administration Assistant (Leatherhead)

Chloé joined MFT in August 2023 as our Administration Assistant. In her role, she maintains staff training records and supports the Recovery & Connect and In Reach teams.

To look after her wellbeing, Chloé enjoys spending time with her friends and family, including her cat Smudge. In her free time, Chloé loves doing jigsaw puzzles and collecting postcards from places she’s visited.

E: info@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Chloé's working days are: Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am-4pm.

Connie

Communications Lead (Home-based)

Connie joined us in August 2018 and looks after all aspects of our communications (press relations, stakeholder engagement, internal communications, digital communications, social media, web content, newsletter and awareness campaigns) as well as our marketing and events. She also led the work on our rebranding which resulted in our current logo and website!

Prior to this, Connie worked in communications for national disability charity Scope, was a corporate video producer at Brunswick Group and worked at the newsdesk of financial TV channel, CNBC Europe. She studied English and Bilingual Journalism (French and English).

To maintain her wellbeing, Connie practices mindfulness meditation, yoga and is always up for a good walk. In her spare time, she likes to pursue her many passions (reading, writing and interior decoration) when she isn’t too busy looking after her little ones!

E: communications@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Her working days are: Monday to Thursday, 9am-3pm

Dina

Community Connections Coordinator (Leatherhead)

Dina joined MFT in March 2022 as our Receptionist/Administrator. In July 2023, she took on the role of Community Connections Coordinator. In her role, she coordinates our programme of groups, courses and activities to support people with their emotional wellbeing. She also writes and delivers bespoke emotional wellbeing workshops.

To look after her wellbeing Dina likes to spend time with her family and friends, go for walks and practice Pilates. She also loves to cook.

E: info@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Ellie

Safe Harbour Practitioner (Epsom)

Ellie joined MFT in August 2024 as a Safe Harbour Practitioner. She coordinates, leads activities and support groups, and carries out one-to-one support sessions for people using the service face-to-face, online, and by telephone. She supports individuals in avoiding escalation, managing and preventing mental health crises, as well as better managing their mental health, stabilising, and building resilience.

Ellie has two psychology degrees, one of which is Clinical Psychology. She has previously worked as a Mental Health Support Worker, supporting individuals with complex mental health conditions and helping them transition out of the hospital and back into the community. She currently publishes mental health research with a focus on people who have experienced trauma.

To maintain her wellbeing, Ellie loves listening to music, going to the gym and running.

E: safeharbour@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Emma H

Community Connections Support Worker (Epsom)

Emma joined MFT in June 2024 as our Support Worker for Community Connections. In her role, she supports our various activities, conducts individual appointments for clients, and ensures the safety and smooth running of group sessions across the Surrey Downs area.

With a background as a healthcare assistant, an accredited Mental Health First Aider, and an art teacher for children, teens and adults, including those with SEN and EAL, Emma brings valuable experience and a caring touch to her work.

She has also worked as an art wellbeing facilitator for various charities. Emma is passionate about destigmatizing mental health and approaches discussions from a trauma-informed perspective. She welcomes inclusion in the community and aspires to one day become an Art Therapist as she believes that feeling better can be done through creative solutions.

In her downtime, Emma enjoys hanging out with friends, exploring nature, caring for her cats, and playing online video games.

Emma LL

Administration and Communications Assistant (Leatherhead/Home-based)

Emma joined MFT in June 2022 as our Administration and Communications Assistant. In her role, she provides general administration support to the team as well as assists with our social media channels and website.

To look after both her mental and physical wellbeing, Emma likes to grow food at her allotment, spend time in nature and enjoys crafting. In her spare time, she volunteers and fundraises for various baby loss charities.

E: communications@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Freyja

SUN Group Facilitator with Lived Experience

Freyja joined MFT in December 2022 as a SUN (Service User Network) Group Facilitator with Lived Experience. In her role, she uses her own experience and knowledge to support people experiencing difficulties associated with personality disorders.

Freyja has worked with children with additional needs and behavioural difficulties for a number of years before moving to work with adults in local authority adult social care. Freyja has supported people struggling with their mental health in a variety of roles, both professionally and personally. Freyja has seen how beneficial the right support can be and is passionate about helping others to access the right support for them.

To maintain her own mental health and physical wellbeing, Freyja enjoys spending time walking her dog, baking, paddle boarding and playing board games. She is equally as happy to be curled up under a blanket reading good crime novel.

Giorgia

Nature Nurtures Project Coordinator (Leatherhead)

Giorgia joined MFT in January 2025 as our Nature Nurtures Project Coordinator (based in Leatherhead), where she coordinates, supports, and promotes nature-based activities in the Surrey Downs.

Deeply passionate about sustainability and reconnecting individuals with nature, during her gap years, she lived off-grid, immersing herself in alternative lifestyles and strengthening her connection with nature and the world.

She holds a Master’s degree in Sustainability and Behaviour Change and has extensively researched the benefits of reconnecting with nature through various means (including urban planning, green spaces, and sustainable materials in the built environment). Her final project explored the long-term sustainability and impact of a nature prescription programme. She also has experience in facilitating nature-based activities designed to improve mental health and the quality of green spaces.

To maintain her wellbeing, Giorgia enjoys spending time in nature, practising sound meditations, listening to music, and dancing.

Glyn

Senior Operational Delivery Manager (Leatherhead)

Glyn joined MFT in August 2021 to look after the charity’s portfolio of services including Safe Haven, Service User Network (SUN), Recovery & Connect, In-Reach and Serious Mental Illness (SMI). Since July 2024, as our Senior Operational Delivery Manager, Glyn oversees our Team Managers for Community Connections, Financial & Wellbeing Service, Volunteering, Recovery & Connect, GPimhs Community Connectors and our Lived Experience staff team.

Prior to this, Glyn has been working in services for adults experiencing wellbeing and mental health issues in Sussex for around 15 years. These services included community day services, specialist personality disorder, crisis support services and Recovery college - also delivered by the third sector organisations.

To maintain his wellbeing, Glyn does a lot of walking, reading and spends time with family and friends. He has a dog named Max which he enjoys long walks with and time at the beach. He has a motorbike that he enjoys riding and a caravan which he likes to explore the UK and continent with.

Halima

GPimhs Community Connector (Epsom)

Halima joined MFT in January 2021, after completing her postgraduate training as a Mental Health Practitioner at the University of Sussex. She is trained in delivering a wide range of evidence-based psychological interventions. Halima has worked within mental health services since 2014, across both acute and recovery services.

Halima works alongside a network of GP practices in Epsom as a Community Connector. Her role includes supporting patients to explore the factors affecting their wellbeing, as well as signposting to appropriate services. She has a passion for working in mental health and feels it brings purpose to her life. She finds it rewarding to help people keep well in their communities, reducing social isolation and empowering individuals.

To maintain her own wellbeing, Halima enjoys spending time with her niece as it helps her to be present in the moment! She enjoys painting, listening to chill-step and cherishes her 'me-time'. She likes to play Badminton and is currently learning the piano. Random Fact: Halima is obsessed with butterflies and the colour purple!

Hannah C

SUN (Service Network User) Facilitator with Lived Experience

Hannah joined MFT in January 2024 as a SUN Facilitator with Lived Experience. In her role, Hannah uses her own experiences of mental health and knowledge of primary and secondary care to help support clients with complex emotions often associated with personality disorder.

Hannah has a First Class Degree in Social Science, specialising in Psychology and Education. Following this, Hannah worked as a Young Persons Lived Experience Practitioner aligned with the Farnham MHICS team, working one on one with clients to support them on their recovery journey. In addition, Hannah volunteers at a horse sanctuary that focuses on delivering support to individuals in the local community struggling with grief recovery.

To look after her own wellbeing, Hannah enjoys keeping active by attending the gym, swimming, hiking and taking part in aerial hoop gymnastics. In her free time, Hannah enjoys being creative through journaling and painting, reading and spending quality time with her friends and family.

Hannah P

Team Manager (Leatherhead)

Hannah joined MFT in 2021 as part of the In-Reach service, supporting people being discharged from mental health hospitals and settling back into the community. In July 2023 she became Team Manager, and now oversees the GPimhs Community Connectors, Banstead Social Prescribing, and Recovery & Connect.

Prior to joining MFT, Hannah worked across a variety of mental health care settings including inpatient wards, community mental health and NHS talking therapy. She also trained as a Samaritans listening volunteer.

To look after her wellbeing, Hannah enjoys listening to music, playing video games and spending time with friends and family. She also loves animals, especially cats!

Hayley

Safe Harbour Practitioner (Epsom)

Hayley joined MFT in August 2024 as a Safe Harbour Practitioner. In her role, she coordinates and leads on activities and support groups as well as carry out one-to-one support sessions for people using the service face-to-face, online, and by telephone. Using a holistic approach, she supports individuals to avoid escalation, manage and prevent crisis, better manage their mental health, set goals, stabilise and build resilience.

Hayley is a trained Wellness & Resilience Coach, who has worked with her clients to improve their mindset and remove barriers to achieve positive change in their lives. Hayley has spent the last 3 years working with young adults to manage their mental health, sign post to professional support and establish coping strategies.

To relax and manage her own mental health, Hayley loves to exercise, particularly running outdoors and walking in the woods with her dog. In her spare time, you will find her spending time with her friends and family or tucked under a blanket with a good book or some reality TV!

E: safeharbour@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Helen

Administration Officer (Leatherhead)

Helen joined MFT in October 2024 as our Administration Officer, based in Leatherhead. She oversees admin processes, databases and data reports as well as event planning and delivery. Helen also supports the senior management team.

To look after her wellbeing, Helen enjoys walking (even in the rain) and yoga.

Jack R

Complex Care Liaison Worker (Surrey Wide)

Jack joined MFT in 2022 and has previous experience working as part of the Safe Haven team and GPimhs team as a Lived Experience Practitioner. Jack also helps facilitate our Young People’s Group.

In his role as a Complex Care Liaison Worker (CCLW), Jack provides support to individuals and family members who have experienced complex trauma resulting in multiple issues and support needs. Frequently clients Jack supports may be part of a Safeguarding Adult’s Review or an Inquest process. Some of Jack’s training includes Trauma Informed Care training and Youth Mental Health First Aider training.

In his spare time, Jack likes to tap into his multiple interests, including sports such as football and tennis. Jack also enjoys video games, board games and strategy games such as fantasy football (FPL). Furthermore, Jack likes listening to music and curating his various playlists on Spotify.

Jack T

Community Connections Area Coordinator (Elmbridge)

Jack joined the Community Connections team in January 2024 as our Area Co-ordinator for Elmbridge. In this role, he co-ordinates groups and courses within Elmbridge that support individuals to connect with their local community and improve their mental and emotional wellbeing as well as offering one-to-one support to clients. Prior to this, Jack worked as our SMI Physical Health Liaison Worker from April 2023.

Jack comes to MFT with 7 years of experience working as a Housing and Support Officer, supporting clients with a wide range of mental health issues as well as working with offenders and individuals in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.

Outside of work Jack plays in two bands, enjoys running (when the weather’s ok!) and spending time with his family and friends.

E: JackT@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Jane

Safe Haven Manager (Epsom)

Jane has worked with us since March 2016 as part of our Safe Haven service in Epsom. Her background is in teaching, assessing and supporting individuals to reach their full potential. She finds her work at Safe Haven satisfying and fulfilling.

Her role at the Safe Haven is to support people who are experiencing a crisis with their mental health, to support and signpost them to the most appropriate services and to be a supportive listening ear. She liaises with the team in Leatherhead to make sure all Safe Haven staff have all of the information about what’s currently on offer and coordinates referrals to Community Connections. She also makes sure the Safe Haven is fully staffed at all times and produces statistics for reporting purposes.

She maintains her emotional well-being by taking time out to go to the gym, playing the piano and spending time with her family and friends.

Her top tip for maintaining her wellbeing is to acknowledge her mistakes and remind herself that mistakes are something she shares with every other human on the planet. When she is compassionate with herself, she can be more compassionate toward others.

Her hobbies are travelling, the theatre and going to live music events.

John Anderton

Head of Operations (Leatherhead)

John joined us in July 2017 to ensure that our services are run smoothly and as efficiently as possible. He also focuses on exploring new areas of development and growth for the charity.

Joyce

GPimhs Community Connector (Dorking)

Joyce joined MFT in October 2023, initially as part of our secondary care In-Reach service and from February 2024 as a GPimhs Community Connector. In this role, Joyce works with individuals in GP practices in Dorking to help them explore factors affecting their mental health and signposting them to appropriate services. She works in a person-centred approach with individuals, families, carers, and health professionals, that gives people autonomy around their wellbeing.

Joyce carried out Psychosocial studies at undergraduate level and is currently completing her masters in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. She is very much involved in people’s mental health and wellbeing which is her passion. Previously Joyce has worked in acute hospitals and counselling children and adolescents.

To look after her wellbeing, Joyce enjoys being around friends and family, meditation and music.

Julie C

GPimhs Community Connector (Banstead)

Julie is a full-time Community Connector, supporting people from the GP practices in Banstead, who have needs relating to their mental health. Part of Julie's role is empowering people to identify their strengths, and develop their skills to restore and maintain good mental health and wellbeing, and ultimately take steps towards achieving their full potential. Julie networks with other local voluntary services, statutory services, and a diverse group of professionals to make this happen.

Julie is a registered social worker, previously working in a statutory mental health social care team. She worked alongside people living with mental health needs, often supporting their families/carers also. Julie enjoyed visiting people in their own homes, in hospital, supported living settings, and also people who had no fixed abode.

To boost and maintain her physical and mental health, Julie likes to follow her walking routine, plans on starting yoga or pilates, and is determined to master the hula hoop! Julie continues to get involved with her family and friends activities, celebrating the highs, and supporting during the lows.

Julie R

Administrator/Receptionist (Leatherhead)

Julie joined MFT in March 2024, as an Administrator/Receptionist based in Leatherhead. Julie will be the first point of contact, by phone or by email for any new client. In her role, Julie books clients onto courses, processes new referrals, and deals with a variety of enquiries and general administration tasks.

In her spare time, Julie enjoys keeping fit which can include Zumba, LBT (Legs, Bums and Tums), Pilates, and Yoga. She likes meeting up with friends and going for walks with her family, which also includes Flo, their cocker spaniel.

Julie’s working days are Monday to Friday, 9am-3pm.

E: info@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Justin

Safe Haven Practitioner (Epsom)

Justin joined the Safe Haven team in April 2021 after being part of our Safe Haven bank staff for a year. In his role, Justin supports people experiencing mental health or emotional crisis who need support by offering a welcoming confidential environment and a safe space to talk. Sometimes this may involve signposting to appropriate support services to help maintain mental and emotional wellbeing.

Justin has worked as a Special Educational Needs teacher for nearly ten years and teaches multiple subjects across the curriculum. Prior to that, he worked within the care sector and has taught and supported a wide range of individuals from a number of boroughs.

To maintain a positive mindset, Justin likes to tap into his multiple interests, including producing and playing music, performing live with other musicians within a range of different musical genres, making art in a range of different methods and mixed medias, mountain biking, going to the gym. He is also interested in mechanics and motor-sport and has a motorbike and a classic car.

Karyn

Lived Experience Practitioner GPimhs (Leatherhead)

Karyn joined MFT in December 2023 as our GPimhs Lived Experience Practitioner in Leatherhead. In this role she provides formalised peer support and practical assistance to people using the service in order for them to regain control over their lives and their own unique recovery journey.

Karyn was inspired by her own lived experience of mental health difficulties to become a Mental Health First Aider in March 2022. She has used this training to support people experiencing bereavement, anxiety and depression in her local community. Karyn has also completed a level two certificate in Counselling Skills. Karyn really wants to help individuals experiencing mental ill health by helping them to identify their recovery goals, suggesting ways to reach them and by being part of a person-centred mental health service for those in need.

To maintain a healthy balance and her own mental health, Karyn spends time looking after her cuddly Cavapoo Mutley, arranges to meet her friends often and watches history documentaries in her spare time.

Kathy

Finance and Administration Manager (Leatherhead)

Kathy has worked with MFT since 2009 in various roles and is now responsible for the overall financial management and administration of our charity. She looks after our accounts, budgeting, procurement, HR, databases, etc.

To keep fit, both physically and mentally, Kathy likes to do Pilates and to run.

Katrina

Mental Health Safeguarding and Clinical Supervision Lead (Leatherhead)

Katrina is a trained counsellor, supervisor and EMDR trauma therapist. Working in mental health, family support and education for 23 years, she joined the Mary Frances Trust in July 2023.

Katrina supports the running of the SUN groups and also oversees safeguarding and clinical supervisions. She is always on hand to offer advice and support the staff team with any concerns. Katrina helps to ensure all policies and procedures are working effectively for the service and spends time meeting with the team, reflecting on areas we can improve so we can consistently strive to provide the best service that meets the needs of people using our services. Together, we reflect on how we can help the whole person in a holistic way, in our meetings.

To maintain a healthy balance and her own mental health Katrina can be found walking her therapy dog Beabea in the Sussex countryside. She also enjoys meditating and practicing Reiki. Katrina is married and has 2 children and 3 grandchildren and loves exploring nature with them.

Kerry

Business Support Officer (Leatherhead)

Kerry joined MFT in May 2021, initially as an Administration Officer and then as a Business Support Officer. In her role, Kerry provides administrative and operational support to the Head of Operations and plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of daily operations. Her role is vital in promoting productivity and supporting the overall success of the organisation.

To look after her wellbeing, Kerry likes to spend time with friends, family and her two cats. She enjoys being out in the countryside, horse riding and has a keen interest in car racing!

Kim

Lived Experience Practitioner GPimhs (Epsom)

Kim joined MFT in October 2022 as our GPimhs Lived Experience Practitioner in Epsom. In this role, she provides formalised peer support and practical assistance to people using the service in order for them to regain control over their lives and their own unique recovery journey.

Kim really wants to help people struggling with their mental health to find strategies to help promote and maintain their wellbeing and be able to enjoy life again. Kim has previously worked with children and adults with learning difficulties, anxiety and depression and complex medical needs.

To maintain her own physical and emotional wellbeing, Kim loves to spend time visiting her family and playing with her children. Kim loves to watch comedy programmes, walk her dog, meet people along the way and stop for a chat. Kim also finds time every week to practice meditation and mindfulness.

Laura

Safe Haven Practitioner (Epsom)

Laura joined the Safe Haven bank staff in December 2023 and recently became a permanent member of the team. In her role at Safe Haven, Laura offers support to people experiencing emotional or mental distress. The service provides a safe and welcoming environment where people can share their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Part of her role is to signpost and refer to the appropriate support services to help maintain emotional and mental wellbeing.

Laura has previously worked with young people with traumatic brain injury and has spent the last 7 years supporting young people with special educational needs, to access further education.

To maintain a positive mindset, Laura enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going to self-defence club and binge-watching box sets of 'Gray's Anatomy' with her daughters. She loves taking long walks in the countryside, camping holidays in France and self-care Sundays.

Lenny

Wellbeing Advice and Information Officer

Lenny joined MFT in 2004 and is one of our longest serving members of staff. In her role, she offers free and confidential support and information on any issues impacting on someone’s emotional health wellbeing, from housing and benefits to how to access the mental health services they need. She supports people over the telephone, by email or in person to work through these issues allowing people to create a healthy balance mentally and emotionally, and make informed choices for themselves.

Outside of work, Lenny is also a bereavement counsellor, Gestalt counsellor and an accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).

In her spare time, Lenny likes walking, gardening or taking photographs. She also likes to spend time reading , doing DIY, listening to music, watching films and spending time with her cats. Lenny looks after her mental health by practising mindfulness and meditation.

E: lenny@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Leondres

Lived Experience Recovery and Connect Worker (Leatherhead)

Leondres (aka Leo) joined MFT in November 2023 as our Lived Experience Recovery & Connect Worker. In his role, he aims to help clients lead better lives by using his lived experience of mental health in a peer support role and contribute to the care and recovery of people accessing the HOMEFirst initiative, alongside our Recovery and Connect Workers. He also supports clients to ensure they can use an accessible, non-stigmatising localised service.

Leondres has spent the last two years working as a Social Prescribing Link Worker for a local authority, where he supported clients with a diverse range of issues. His role entailed liaising with clients about these issues and signposting and/or referring them to suitable charities, organisations or mental health services, that can support these clients to deal with their issues and aid their wellbeing and mental health.

In his spare time, Leondres likes to listen to podcasts, go to gigs with friends and do creative activities such as painting, water colouring and print making.

Liz

Safe Harbour Manager & Safe Haven Practitioner (Epsom)

Liz joined us in 2016 as a Practitioner at our Safe Haven in Epsom to offer emotional support, crisis management and referrals/signposting to those in emotional distress when other services are closed. The service provides a safe place for people to come when they are in crisis to receive support from MFT and clinical staff.

Liz has now taken on the role of Safe Harbour Manager, alongside her Safe Haven role. Safe Harbour is a new service which offers 6 weeks of continual support to those recovering from mental illness. This is a clinical referral only service which is starting in August 2024, initially for a 1-year pilot.

To maintain her emotional wellbeing, Liz makes time for herself each week, despite having two jobs and a family. She also enjoys reading, taking trips in her campervan and swimming. She is also enjoying spending time with her first grandchild, a little boy who arrived in July 2024.

E: safeharbour@maryfrancestrust.org.uk

Lorraine

Safe Haven Practitioner (Epsom)

Lorraine is a qualified Teacher specialised in Special Educational Needs and working with adults who have a wide spectrum of disabilities. In her role at Safe Haven, she supports people experiencing mental health or emotional crisis who need support by offering a welcoming confidential environment and a safe space to talk. Sometimes this may involve signposting to appropriate support services to help maintain mental and emotional wellbeing.

In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, walking in the Surrey Hills, upcycling furniture and spending time with her family. She has been involved in Martial Arts for many years and supports her family-run Kickboxing Club by volunteering.

Lorraine’s top tip for maintaining her wellbeing is to walk and talk, as being out in nature boosts both your emotional, physical wellbeing and can be an opportunity to connect with family and friends.

Lynne

Recovery and Connect Worker (Elmbridge)

Lynne joined MFT in May 2022 as a Recovery and Connect Worker as part of a pilot project with Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. In her role, she supports people who are under the mental health team; working together holistically to build resilience to access community services and maintain wellbeing.

Lynne has a varied background in performing arts, education and youth work. She has spent the last 14 years supporting people experiencing mental illness and their carers; providing a range of one-to-one, telephone and group support. Lynne was also part of the team who set up Woking Safe Haven providing crisis support to those in distress.

Lynne has lots of experience as a volunteer setting up two charities in Surrey. She was responsible for training helpline volunteers as well as being a listening volunteer herself.

Outside of work, Lynne is a member of a local choir and enjoys being part of their management committee with responsibility for welcoming and supporting new members. She has found singing a great stress buster and a good way to make new friends and bring more joy into her life. Lynne also volunteers to facilitate a mental health support group for carers as part of a network of groups led by one of our leading national mental health charities.

Matthew

Volunteer Co-Ordinator (Leatherhead)

Matthew joined MFT in June 2022 and manages the volunteer recruitment and engagement process, sourcing, inducting, training and onboarding new volunteers. He is the ‘go to’ person for all matters volunteering within the charity.

He has a varied and interesting background having worked in the not-for-profit and charitable sector for over 30 years from volunteer co-ordinator to project manager and Board member working with small, medium and large UK and international charities. He is a former Trustee of Volunteering England and Positive Action (an HIV Charity).

He has interviewed over 6,000 volunteers, managed two volunteer centres in Surrey and 2,500 volunteers on 60 + community projects throughout the UK, Belgium and Germany (British Army on the Rhine). He is also a specialist trainer to the charity sector.

In his spare time, Matthew likes to travel and has visited 39 countries around the world. He also has an interest in collecting antiques, especially handmade wooden jigsaw puzzles and Chinese artefacts. He looks after his mental health by seeing and entertaining family and friends, and volunteering for other charities from time to time.

E: matthew@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
M: 07432 510493
Please note that Matthew works part-time.

Megan

Co-production, Community Engagement & Strategy Lead (Leatherhead)

Megan joined MFT in January 2025 and looks after the development of our strategic priority for MFT to live and breathe co-production. She also facilitates our Advisory Group, and champions those with lived experience of mental health challenges to improve the way mental health support is developed, reviewed, and delivered.

Megan first learnt about co-production as a Lived Experience Advisor with the Independent Mental Health Network based at Surrey Coalition of Disabled People, contributing her own lived experience to mental health projects in Surrey and North East Hampshire after graduating university.

She has since worked on a range of development projects for Surrey's mental health and wellbeing support, immersing community engagement and lived experience into research and decision-making. Additionally, she is an alumna for The King's Fund after completing their Advanced Organisational Development Practitioner programme.

To maintain her wellbeing, Megan is an avid reader, journals, and practices Yoga.

Meklit

GPimhs Community Connector (Epsom)

Meklit joined MFT in March 2020 as a Community Connector providing confidential advice and support, based within a network of GP practices in Leatherhead before moving to join the Epsom GPimhs team in November 2024. In her role, she guides and supports people to explore the issues and situations affecting their lives and their wellbeing – whether that is ongoing mental or physical health problem, stress, anxiety, loneliness, relationship, loss, debt, or other life issues. She supports patients to reflect on their circumstances and help them design a care plan which can help them manage their lives better or guide them to appropriate resources that can provide them with the kind of help they need, including talking therapies, benefits/employments advice, short courses, or introduction to local community groups.

Prior to that, Meklit completed a 3-year postgraduate training in Psychosynthesis Counselling/Psychotherapy in 2011 and ran a private counselling practice both in the UK and abroad for many years supporting people with various life issues.

Meklit looks after herself by spending time with her family, walking in nature and doing yoga. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, music and doing jigsaw puzzles.

Moira

Lived Experience Practitioner GPimhs (Banstead)

Moira joined MFT in October 2022 as a Lived Experience Practitioner with the GPimhs in Banstead. In this role, she provides formalised peer support and practical assistance to people using the service in order for them to regain control over their lives and their own unique recovery journey.

Moira worked as a Care Support Worker at the Department of Psychiatry, Epsom Hospital with Surrey and Borders NHS Foundation Trust (SABP).

In her spare time, Moira likes to travel and spend time with her family. She looks after her own wellbeing by cooking, eating out, gardening, going to the gym and volunteering for the mental health charity Love Me Love My Mind, in Epsom.

Nadia

Mental Health Case Worker (Epsom & Ewell)

Nadia is our Mental Health Case Worker who works in partnership with Citizens Advice, supporting individuals with their mental health, wellbeing, and finances.

She has a Psychology background from which she grew extensive knowledge and experience supporting individuals with various mental health and wellbeing needs.

Outside of work, Nadia enjoys taking care of her wellbeing through spiritual practices. These include meditation, visualisation, and Qi gong. Reading, traveling, dancing, and nature all make the list too!

E: fwss@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
M: 07380567708

Nic

Team Manager – Lived Experience Practitioners (Leatherhead)

Nic joined MFT at the start of May 2020 as a Community Connector originally in Tandridge and later in Epsom. In September 2024, Nic successfully became our Team Manager for Lived Experience Practitioners.

He is based at the Leatherhead MFT office and supports the Senior Operations Delivery Manager, leading and motivating a small team of Lived Experience Practitioners and assisting in managing key stakeholder relationships.

Nic has worked in mental health support services since 2005 - in mental health supported housing, The Old Moat in Epsom, employment support, GPimhs, and for a GP Federation. He has experience providing 1 to 1 mental health support as well as administrative support and has a range of management experience.

He looks after his physical health to support his mental health, and enjoys meeting friends and cooking.

Nicola

GPimhs Community Connector (Leatherhead)

Nicola joined MFT in October 2024 as a Community Connector as part of our GPimhs service in Leatherhead. Her role includes using a patient-centred approach to supporting people's wellbeing by helping them identify factors affecting their mental health. She also signposts them towards information and services that can support their journey.

Prior to this, Nicola worked as a social prescriber for five years within a wellbeing service. Nicola has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology as well as training in motivational interviewing, counselling and cognitive behaviour therapy.

To maintain her own wellbeing, Nicola loves to spend time with friends, family and their dogs. She enjoys listening to music, reading and the occasional puzzle. She plays hockey on the weekends and is always up for a good walk.

Nikki

Community Connections Area Co-Ordinator for Mole Valley (Leatherhead)

Nikki joined us in August 2022 as our Area Co-ordinator for Mole Valley, offering one-to-one support to clients, and setting up all the groups and courses within Mole Valley to help support people with their mental and emotional wellbeing.

Before this, Nikki was a supervisor for a home care company, and as part of her role, supported clients with their mental health challenges. She recently finished university where she gained a degree in Therapeutic Psychology, with modules in counselling, psychology, mental health and neurobiology.

In her spare time, Nikki enjoys going to the theatre, her favourite show is Blood Brothers. She loves spending quality time with her family. To help promote her own wellbeing, Nikki enjoys listening to podcasts, and attending the spa at her local gym.

E: nikki@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
M: 07414 530043

Parvin

Community Connections Area Co-Ordinator for Banstead, Epsom & Ewell (Epsom-based)

Parvin joined as a sessional worker in May 2017. Her role was to work with the Black Asian Minority Ethnic groups (BAME) in Ruxley and Court Ward, Epsom through the Longmead "Inclusion for All" Project. Since January 2018, Parvin progressed onto the role of Project Coordinator for Epsom and Ewell, concentrating on the BAME groups as well as supporting the team. She is now the Area Co-Ordinator for Banstead, Epsom & Ewell and sets up courses and activities for people using our services in this area.

Her responsibilities include breaking the stigma of mental health in ethnic communities and supporting them to engage in activities, courses and events. And as a result, helping individuals or groups to gradually overcome any emotional and physical wellbeing issues they are facing in their daily lives. Parvin is also our Autism Champion at MFT.

Parvin always tries to remain optimistic and positive to support her own emotional wellbeing. She practices mindfulness when she can. Supporting others in their journey is something that keeps her going. In her spare time, Parvin loves spending time with her family and going out to fancy restaurants. She engages in courses to develop her knowledge, skills and understanding. As she is passionate about helping people, she does a lot of voluntary work outside of MFT.

E: parvin@maryfrancestrust.org.uk
M: 07380 857 701

Patrick Wolter

Chief Executive Officer (Leatherhead)

Patrick is a trained Psychologist with over 15 years of experience working in mental health, in both statutory and third sector organisations.

After taking over the role of Chief Executive Officer at Mary Frances Trust in 2011, Patrick has been leading on strategic changes to keep up with wider developments within the mental health system, further develop the organisation and bring it to the current modern and successful MFT that it is today.

On a daily basis, Patrick works closely with the Management Board, staff and the Advisory Board to respond to continuous and rapid transitions within the mental health sector and to make sure our services meet the changing needs of the people of Surrey. Patrick also facilitates three monthly peer support groups: Bipolar, Hoarders and LGBTQ.

In his spare time, Patrick enjoys taking part in outdoor activities and cultural events. Patrick is also a member of a local choir in Surrey as singing helps him look after his own emotional and mental wellbeing.

Rachel

Community Connections Online Programme Coordinator

Rachel joined MFT in December 2023 and started working on the Severe Mental Illness (SMI) Team as a Physical Liaison Worker. In April 2024, she moved onto a new role and joined the Community Connections Team as the Online Programme Coordinator.

In her role, Rachel coordinates and develops our online programme of wellbeing courses, groups and activities helping clients fulfil their potential and improve their mental health.

In her spare time, Rachel enjoys spending time with her partner and son. She has started piano lessons, practices yoga and loves sport for her own mental and physical wellbeing. She also finds cooking relaxing and loves to be in nature.

Ruby

Safe Harbour Practitioner (Epsom)

Ruby joined us in February 2021, working first as part of our Community Connections service, then our In-Reach service before moving on to Safe Harbour, our crisis prevention service in Epsom. As a Safe Harbour Practitioner, she supports individuals at risk of regular mental health crises, through both one-to-one sessions and group workshops. Working with referred clients over a six-week period, the aim of the service is to reduce the frequency and severity of mental health crises, provide alternative strategies for de-escalation, as well as to build resilience.

Before this, Ruby ran education programmes for young people to support skills development and wellbeing, and prior to this as support staff for mental health teams within Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. While working at the BBC, Ruby also managed press relations for a number of documentaries exploring mental health.

In her spare time, Ruby loves to read, get lost on long walks and spend time with her friends and family.

Sharon

Safe Haven Practitioner (Epsom)

Sharon joined the Safe Haven team in April 2021 after being part of our Safe Haven bank staff for a year. Her role is to listen to people's stories who may be in crisis and struggling with their mental health and signpost them to the appropriate support.

Her background is in Further Education as a Student Mentor supporting, engaging with students throughout their journey, listening without judgement, empathizing and encouraging them to follow their own path into the future.

Sharon is able to maintain her own wellbeing with her love of cooking, keeping fit with regular swimming and is deeply involved in supporting her family and friends. She loves going to the cinema and travel.

Simon

Recovery and Connect Worker (Surrey Downs)

Simon is a dedicated mental health professional with over a decade of experience supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. He joined MFT in January 2025 as a Recovery and Connect Worker, a key role in a collaborative pilot project with Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

In his role, Simon works closely with individuals under the care of the mental health team, taking a holistic approach to build resilience, access vital community services, and promote overall wellbeing. His extensive background at Richmond Fellowship (now Waythrough) equips him with the skills to support people with diverse mental health conditions. He has a proven track record in helping individuals find and maintain meaningful employment while prioritising their holistic health and wellness.

When not at work, Simon practices mindfulness and meditation to maintain his own wellbeing. He enjoys staying active through table tennis and swimming. As a passionate foodie, he delights in cooking and exploring the diverse culinary offerings from around the globe.

Sushma

GPimhs Community Connector (East Elmbridge)

Sushma joined MFT in December 2021 as a Community Connector for East Elmbridge. In this role, she is supporting people experiencing wide and complex range of mental health and emotional wellbeing issues by providing practical guidance and psycho-social interventions. Furthermore, she is helping people identify other aspects in their lives that are impacting their mental health and support them to access the appropriate community services and resources to improve and maintain their overall wellbeing.

Sushma has studied Psychology at university and she has also obtained a Master’s degree (MSc) in Early intervention in Psychosis from King’s College London. She has experience working with and supporting people in mental health crisis on the mental health crisis line with Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (SABP).

To maintain her own mental and physical wellbeing, Sushma goes on hikes and walks with her family. She also enjoys visiting and exploring museums, exhibitions and galleries by herself or with family/friends. She enjoys cooking and eating delicious foods, both at home and at restaurants.

Tracy

Finance Officer (Leatherhead)

Tracy joined us in January 2019 and supports the organisation with any accounts and administrative tasks. This is a varied role and includes everything from keeping our database up-to-date and processing the charity’s accounts, to proofreading publications and assisting with the organisation of events.

In her spare time, Tracy enjoys the creativity of arts and crafts. She also subscribes to the Irish proverb: “A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything!” as smiling and laughter can have a positive effect on wellbeing, and sleep helps to boost the immune system and reduce stress.