Jo Owen-Jones

Member of our Human Resources Committee

Born in Guildford, I trained at the Royal Free School of Medicine in London, graduating in 1976. I did GP training and part of this was as a civilian medical practitioner in Germany as my husband was an army doctor at the time.

On returning to the UK, after having two sons, I became a partner in a large Swindon practice where I stayed until retiring in 2012. I gained an MSc in the evaluation of clinical practice in 1999 which led to various roles involving doctor and practice evaluation both locally and nationally.

Since retiring as a GP, I’ve sat on tribunals hearing appeals about benefits such as employment support allowance and personal independent payments/ DLA.

I joined Home-Start as a trustee in 2015 as I had seen the great work that Home-Starts do and referred families to them whilst a GP in Swindon. I was chair from 2017-2023, and am the safeguarding lead.

Marcia Johnson

Marcia is our Treasurer, and Chair of our Finance and Fundraising Committee.

After growing up in Essex I studied Maths at Exeter University. I married and moved to Hertfordshire where I worked as a Systems Analyst/Computer Programmer.

When my first child was born, I became Treasurer of the local Toddler Group – the first of many organisations for which I have been Honorary Treasurer.

After moving to Wiltshire, I’ve also been a School Governor and a Churchwarden. I joined Home-Start in 1989 and have been Treasurer several times. As a parent (four children) and grandparent (four granddaughters), I know how important friendly, un-judgemental support can be for a family when there are problems in life.

Sheree Whorlow

Sheree is Chair of our Human Resources Committee

Born to an ex-army officer and his wife in Wiltshire I was brought up to understand the importance of community.

My career, although set in a banking environment, was varied. I gained a coaching degree and delighted in supporting others to be ‘the best they could be’.

As a Mum and hands-on Granny, I am honoured to be able to bring my parenting, leadership, management and HR knowledge to the lovely team of Trustees at Home-Start North Wiltshire who, along with the fantastic staff and volunteers, come together to help young children to ‘be the best they can be’.

Mick Haynes

Mick is our Lead Trustee for Health and Safety, and a member of our Human Resources Committee and Finance and Fundraising Committee.

A proud Yorkshire man, I was educated at Beverley Grammar School. After A levels I joined the Army beginning a career that lasted over 46 years; rising through the ranks to lieutenant colonel.

In the army I held training, logistic and command roles and various army staff posts. I and my wife Elaine arrived in Pewsey in 2005 which was our 24th house move.

Proud to be Home-Start’s ‘Army’ trustee I use my military knowledge, and personal experience of army life to aid the valuable work of the charity; it is an honour to be part of the charity.

Cindy Ervine

Cindy is our joint Lead Trustee for Data Protection.

I have worked within family law as a Matrimonial Solicitor since qualifying in 1995, and developed specialisms in finances and children. During that time, I have been based predominantly in North Wiltshire.

I am also a long-standing trustee member of Fear Free Support Service, which is a registered charity that helps people experiencing both domestic abuse and sexual violence.

I joined Home-Start North Wiltshire in 2023, as its mission aligns with my area of work. I enjoy being linked in with my local community and able to support local families.

Jason Waters

Jason is a member of our Finance and Fundraising Committee

I have a successful background in business and finance, and joined Home-Start North Wiltshire as a way of putting my skills and experience to use in a different environment.

I am fairly new to Wiltshire,  and saw this as an opportunity to become more involved in my local community. I also understand the challenges of family life, and am a parent to two young children.

I enjoy contributing to the development of the charity, particularly being able to think creatively and strategically, and bring new perspectives on issues faced.

Kristy Green

Kristy is our Lead Trustee for Volunteers.

I live in Devizes with my husband Richard, who was in the army until a few years ago. As such we have moved many times, exploring lots of different places and meeting loads of different and interesting people. We have two grown-up sons, James and Charlie.

I am a primary school teacher by trade and since finishing work I have started volunteering with Home-Start, Alzheimer Support and Read Easy; three local charities where I feel my skillset still can be used and I can begin to feel part of a community.

I was initially a home visiting volunteer for Home-Start. As a volunteer, the most rewarding part of the role was feeling that by giving a bit of my time I was able to make a difference and signpost ways for the family to move forwards with renewed self-confidence.

Lois Smith

Lois is our joint Lead Trustee for Data Protection.

I have recently retired from my career as a solicitor in Wiltshire and Swindon, and am keen to channel my time and energy into helping those who need it.
Through my work, I have developed a strong understanding of how difficult life can be for many families, and the difficult choices that can arise from financial need, or a lack of family or community support.
I have been impressed by the work Home-Start North Wiltshire carries out, and the impact that giving extra help to families a critical time can have.

Shirley Whitby

Lizzie Daley

Lizzie is our Trustee Lead for Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Adults at Risk.

I grew up in London and Wiltshire, and having studied French and Law at university I worked in finance for several years. While bringing up my two children I worked as a self-employed book-keeper and was Hon Treasurer then chair of the local branch of the NSPCC and of the N.C.T. I worked as a teaching assistant for 9 years at a primary school – I very much enjoyed working with young children.

I have volunteered for several charities over the years – I was a Foundation governor for a local C of E primary school for 12 years and have been treasurer and safeguarding officer of the local PCC/Benefice for many years too.

I am a current Home start volunteer, and enjoy supporting the families and following their development. I have also helped at one of the groups.  I became a Trustee as I was keen to help the charity more and that seemed a valuable way to do this and support their aims.

Dr Anne West – Chair of Trustees