Our people - YMCA DownsLink Group

Our people

Without the dedication, hard work and passion of our staff, trustees and volunteers, we could not deliver the services we provide to children, young people and families. 

Board

We have a diverse board of trustees and independent committee members supporting our leadership to ensure the organisation is well-run, financially secure and delivers quality services. 

Executive Team

Our executive team works alongside our Board to shape and deliver our strategic framework. 

The organisation is led by our CEO in service of our mission.

Leadership Team 

We have a highly experienced Leadership Team who execute day-to-day operations effectively and ensure compliance. 

  • Charlotte Carp, Head of Improvement and Impact (and Complaints and Whistleblowing Officer) 
  • Debbie Watkins, Head of Fundraising and Communications 
  • Donna Durham, Head of Asset Management 
  • Irma Gudaityte, Head of Finance 
  • Jay Beach, Head of Housing Operations, Brighton & Hove 
  • Kirsten McCarthy, Head of Housing Operations, East Sussex (and Ofsted Registered Service Manager) 
  • Laura James, Head of Therapeutic Services 
  • Rachel Hawkins, Head of People 
  • Sharon Rawcliffe, Head of Housing Operations, West Sussex and Guildford (and Ofsted Registered Service Manager) 
  • Sian Stokes, Company Secretary and Executive Assistant 
  • Thomas Palser, Head of Youth Advice and Support 

And a central safeguarding team who assure quality practice across our services, aligned to our service thresholds and consistent with our policy and with regulatory and legal standards. 

Meet our staff

Housing

Eden - Hastings

Counselling

Jenny Ardagh

Support and advice

Joshana - Brighton

Find out more about us

About us

Find out more about what we do at YMCA DownsLink Group

Our impact

Read more about our impact in Sussex and Surrey

Reports and publications

Find out more about our reports and publications

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