Our people

In case you’re interested, here’s a bit of info about some of the people who work for us and those who have the legal responsibility for managing Lifecraft. We’re a lovely team and we all want to do our best for the charity and the people we support.

We're looking forward to meeting you

In case you’re interested, here’s a bit of info about some of the people who work for us and those who have the legal responsibility for managing Lifecraft. We’re a lovely team and we all want to do our best for the charity and the people we support.

Ali (she/her)
Suicide Bereavement Liaison Worker

As a young person, I volunteered at Lifecraft when it first started. My training developed and my awareness in mental health continued to grow, and now I am lucky to work for Lifecraft again.

Why I love Lifecraft

This is such rewarding work, and I feel I can make a difference. I think that the care and support of each other glues the organisation together.

A few of my favourite things

I love my family and friends as well as my dog. I walk my dog and enjoy finding classes with others. I have travelled and want to do more of this. I enjoy authentic food and exploring new recipes.

A hand holding a cup
Bina
Admin Assistant

I have worked in admin on and off for over 20 years. I became a member of Lifecraft and then I volunteered as well. When the admin work became available, I jumped at the chance to give back to a place that has helped me and keep my work ethics and skills up to date.

Why I love Lifecraft

I became a member when I needed it the most, and they have helped me a great deal. I have people I can talk to when I am struggling, and I am part of a community where everyone understands and is there for each other. 

A few of my favourite things

I love reading, cooking and spending time with my cats.

Britt
Britt (she/her)
Work + Wellbeing Officer

I am running the Work + Wellbeing service to help members who have been out of work, due to their mental health, to get back into either volunteering or work. I worked at Lifecraft originally from 2013-2016 but started working here again in 2024. I have also volunteered at Lifecraft over the years, attended regularly as a member and have been a trustee twice.

Why I love Lifecraft

Because it’s been an unwavering source of support for my own mental health issues and all the members are so supportive of each other.

A few of my favourite things

Cats, drawing and painting in watercolour, attempting to make stained glass, music and Bananagrams.

Two speech bubbles
Carole (she/her)
Suicide Bereavement Services Manager

Why I love Lifecraft

It’s a place where people can feel accepted and get support.

A few of my favourite things

My cats, walking and rowing.

Cass
Cass
Crisis and Support Helplines Manager (job share) & Suicide Bereavement Liaison Worker

Why I love Lifecraft

I love my job and feel humbled to be able to support people through their times of need.

A few of my favourite things

Wild camping with my dog Ned, hiking or taking long walks along the beach.

Cathy
Cathy (she/her)
Counselling Manager (job share)

I have been a counsellor for almost thirty years and had my first training placement at Lifecraft. Nine years ago I saw the role of counselling manager advertised and thought ‘shall I retire or go for a new job’ so here I am!

Why I love Lifecraft

It’s a special place where people can be themselves and care for each other.

A few of my favourite things

Reading, chocolate and crafts.

Gemma
Gemma (she/her)
Chief Executive

I came to work at Lifecraft in 2020 following a career in local government. All my previous jobs have been focused on supporting local communities, but this role is definitely the most enjoyable and rewarding.

Why I love Lifecraft

People are friendly and supportive of each other.

A few of my favourite things

Chocolate, playing board games and reading.

Three raised hands
Karen
Art Group Leader

I studied at Anglian Ruskin University and have a master’s degree (MA) in children’s book illustration. I worked as a children’s book illustrator and art facilitator before coming to work at Lifecraft. I’ve been at Lifecraft since 2014 and over time have developed my art teaching skills.

Why I love Lifecraft

I love leading the art group because I enjoy supporting people with their artwork and sharing my creative skills. I am always amazed at the fantastic art that our members produce! I like working as part of a team to help support people with their mental health, and this in turn has helped support my own wellbeing and sense of purpose.

A few of my favourite things

I love wild swimming in the river with a mermaid fin! Also, anything creative, drawing and painting, knitting and crochet and making my own clothes.

two hands interlocking
Kezia
Clerk to the Trustees and Communications Officer

I started volunteering at Lifecraft many years ago and I have now collected more job titles than there is space to fit them in! My work involves communications, governance, data and cyber security.

Why I love Lifecraft

I love the way everyone supports each other.

A few of my favourite things

Houseplants, baking and stationery.

Two speech bubbles
Lucy
Counselling Manager (job share)

I am a qualified counsellor and the very proud owner of two adorable pugs. If you’ve ever spoken to me while I’ve been working from home, chances are, you’ll have heard their snores!

Why I love Lifecraft

I adore Lifecraft because it is one of those few places that feels like an actual hug. I’ve never worked somewhere that has such caring staff, volunteers and members – it’s an honour to be a part of it. 

A few of my favourite things

I love all things geeky! I’m a huge fan of board games, video games and role-playing games (ask me about dungeons & dragons or for a board game recommendation anytime!). 

Maria
Maria (she/her)
Coaching Services Manager

I have over 25 years’ experience in managing and business development for non-profits in the area of mental health and wellbeing. Postgraduate in Social Work and Personal and Business Coaching, member of Universal Coaching Alliance.

Why I love Lifecraft

Meaningful work with an experienced and caring organisation that does what it says.

A few of my favourite things

Very good dark chocolate, very good coffee and very good company.

Three raised hands
Melissa (she/her)
Outreach Coordinator

I joined Lifecraft in January 2023 from a retail job. I work at Cambridge and also in the community at our Ely hub. I work on bringing new members into Lifecraft and introducing them to what we do and meeting other members.

Why I love Lifecraft

Lifecraft to me is a big family that looks after each other and truly cares.

A few of my favourite things

I love to read, do arts and crafts and tackling a puzzle or two.

A puzzle piece
Rachel
Group Support Worker

I graduated in Social Work in 2005, but soon left the profession due to family caring responsibilities. I’ve had a few volunteer roles between then and my current role.

Why I love Lifecraft

I became a member in 2019 when I needed support the most. Staff and members made me feel welcome and very supported. 

A few of my favourite things

Nature, paddle boarding, wild swimming and walking with my four dogs.

Richard
Finance and Office Manager

I came to Lifecraft from a 40-year career in corporate business.

Why I love Lifecraft

Lifecraft is like a breath of fresh air, a special place with special people.

A few of my favourite things

Golf, my family, puzzles, beautiful cities.

Tao
Tao (she/her)
Membership Support Worker

I’ve been at Lifecraft for over 10 years, love working here and being part of this wonderful organisation.

Why I love Lifecraft

People are cared for and supported in healing and recovery.

A few of my favourite things

Reading the Bible, going for walks and taking photos.

Two speech bubbles
Verity
Crisis and Support Helplines Manager (job share)

I began volunteering with Lifeline nine years ago. When the Covid pandemic arrived, I became involved in the extension of the service seeing it move from four hours to 12 hours a day and the addition of a dedicated NHS support line. I have since progressed to jointly managing the line with my colleague Cass. As a lifelong Cambridge resident, I am proud to be a part of this vital service providing support to those who are struggling in my own community.

Why I love Lifecraft

I value kindness, creativity, inclusion and making meaningful connections, all of which align perfectly with Lifecraft’s values and my experiences of working with the team.

A few of my favourite things

When not working, I can usually be found in my kitchen attempting to create delicious meals with varying rates of success! I also love camping, Norfolk beaches and my three characterful cats.

Adam (he/him)
Trustee

Why I love Lifecraft

Being part of a supportive, inclusive safe and friendly group.

A few of my favourite things

Reading, walking in mountains, cycling , and swimming in the sea.

Clare (she/her)
Trustee (HR)

I joined Lifecraft as a trustee in December 2020.

Why I love Lifecraft

The kindness and empathy everyone has for each other.

A few of my favourite things

Being by the sea, holidays in my motorhome, yoga.

Jo (she/her)

Why I love Lifecraft

I’ve always found Lifecraft to be a welcoming , safe and supportive space. The services it provides are so needed – but not everywhere has an organisation like Lifecraft, so I really value it.

A few of my favourite things

Crafting, gardening, charity shops, chocolate, gong baths and walking in woodland.

Mustafa (he/him)
Trustee

Why I love Lifecraft

It provides a safe space. All members and staff treat each other with respect.

A few of my favourite things

Basketball, meditation and some of the board games more than others!

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