Debbie Hustings

Chair of the Board

"I have deep roots in the organisation's history and a lifelong passion for volunteering in numerous roles, including mental health. I was previously General Manager at GAVS, the organisation which proceeded VASWS. I joined GAVS in 1996 but I had been volunteering prior to this role. For many years I facilitated the South West Older People's Forum, albeit under a different name, and I also used to facilitate the South West Disability Empowerment board. If you are looking to support your local community, look no further, a warm welcome awaits you. What have you got to lose?"

"It's an incredible privilege to be able to serve my local community and to work alongside such inspirational and talented staff and volunteers."

Debbie Hustings

Samantha Alford

Data Protection Lead

Samantha Alford is an established technical author, instructor and business management specialist.

With over 35 years of experience in compliance, governance and oversight she supports our board as the data protection lead.

Duncan Black

Trustee

Alan Bucknall

Trustee

Meet Our Trustees

Our trustees are vital to the organisation. They help lead the organisation, set the direction and make key decisions. They work closely with our Joint-CEOs and Senior Management Team to ensure that the charity complies with its governance requirements.

Alex Green

Trustee

Phyllida Perrett

Phyllida has worked in the not-for-profit, voluntary sector for over 25 years. As Strategic Development Director at Prospects Services which provided support for vulnerable young people and adults, she gained a wealth of experience including strategy development, management, EDI leadership, budgeting and income generation.

In 2019, Phyllida decided to concentrate on working with small and medium charities, setting up her consultancy providing fundraising advice and a wide range of practical support including strategy development and start-up support. She has an MSc Charity Finance and Leadership, from Bayes Business School.

An experienced trustee with 10 years board experience including 6 years with the Directory of Social Change, an infrastructure charity supporting the voluntary sector across the UK. Phyllida moved to Dunsfold from London nearly 4 years ago and loves nothing better than walking in the Surrey Hills with Bertie (Australian Labradoodle) and husband, Murray.

Want to join our Board of Trustees?

If you are interested in becoming a member of our Board of Trustees, or would like to talk about the opportunities available, please get in contact with us.