Meet the Team

Jane Hartley – Vice Chair and Grants Committee Chair

Jane has been a trustee since 2021 and currently serves as Vice Chair and Chair of the Grants Committee. After her first role as a scientist, she joined the NHS in 1995 working a variety of non-clinical roles. She brings a diverse range of skills and experience from these professional careers. She has contributed to the development and forward momentum of the charity. Jane's dedication is evident in her strategic leadership and her ability to drive the charity's mission forward. She hopes her commitment not only impacts the beneficiaries but also inspires and supports those working behind the scenes.

Fun Fact: Jane has a skydiving adventure planned. We're eagerly waiting to see if she goes through with it. If she does, it will definitely be her fun fact!

Janet Rogers – Finance Committee Chair

Janet, has lived in the Borough for over 20 years and is active in many aspects of the community, is approaching a decade of service as a trustee. Our current Finance Committee Chair, she brings a wealth of experience and a valuable perspective on charity finance to our team. With many years of experience in the grant funding arena, Janet was instrumental in the grant funding set up of WUC. Her expertise not only strengthens our financial strategies but also provides a critical sense check for grant funding. Janet's commitment and insights have been influential in driving our success and supporting our community.

Fun Fact: Janet has completed over 300 park runs!

Kathy Hadfield – Westende Committee Chair

Kathy, our Westende Chair, joined WUC in September 2023 after recently retiring as a GP. Seeking a meaningful way to utilise her extensive knowledge and skills, Kathy found WUC to be the perfect fit. She offers unique pastoral support to the Westende residents, ensuring their well-being and comfort. Kathy's compassionate approach and medical expertise make her an invaluable asset to our team. Her dedication to the residents and her ability to provide holistic care have significantly enhanced the support we offer.

Fun Fact: Kathy enjoys Tai Chi! An ancient martial art helps her stay calm, balanced, and energised. It's like a graceful dance that brings peace and harmony to her day.

Debs Morrison

Debs has an unparalleled passion for the voluntary sector and the local community. As a local resident and the Chief Executive of a local charity, she has a deep appreciation for the complexities involved in running a charitable organisation. Debs leverages her extensive knowledge and experience to support the strategic direction of WUC, ensuring that its mission and impact are effectively realised for the benefit of its beneficiaries. Her dedication and expertise are invaluable assets to our team.

Fun Fact: Debs once had to sit on her mobile phone when attending a large conference as she couldn't work out how to turn it off when it started ringing!

Gordon Veitch

Gordon joined WUC in its early days, when the primary focus was managing the Almshouse. From the outset, he was deeply impressed by the exceptional care and comfort provided to those in need. Over the years, Gordon has become a pillar of support for the almshouse residents, consistently championing their well-being. His dedication extends beyond the Almshouse, as he actively supports the charity's broader mission. Gordon's admiration for the organisation's work has only grown stronger, and his unwavering commitment continues to inspire positive change within the community.

Fun Fact: Gordon has beautiful black and white Springer Spaniel cross called Snoopy! and is also a member of the Wokingham District Veteran Tree Association. WDVTA is working to ensure that Wokingham's veteran and other significant trees are properly identified, protected and managed - and to increase public awareness of their beauty and contribution to the borough's heritage and amenity.

Richard Tweed

Richard, a relatively new member of our trustee board, is a dedicated local resident eager to give back to his community. By day, he works as a solicitor, bringing a wealth of legal expertise to our organisation. Richard's commitment to service is evident in his active participation on our grants committee, where he provides valuable insights into directing our grant funding. His legal acumen and strategic thinking are instrumental in ensuring our funding aligns with our mission. Beyond his role on the committee, Richard offers general support to the charity, contributing to our overall success and community impact.

Fun Fact: Richard has run three marathons and is a qualified football coach!

Rebecca Margetts

Rebecca has been a trustee for 18 months, bringing a wealth of experience to our team. As a local councillor, Rebecca is deeply dedicated to her community and is actively involved in addressing its needs. She possesses an in-depth understanding of the challenges and hardships faced by residents within the Wokingham Borough. Her contributions to the grants committee are highly valued, providing essential direction and focus. Rebecca ensures that our efforts align with our mission to support those most in need. Her commitment and insights are instrumental in driving positive change and making a meaningful impact in our community.

Fun Fact: Rebecca is a keen runner, having completed an Ultra Marathon as well as several marathons, she loves baking and cooking and Strictly Come Dancing!

Anne King

Anne, a Wokingham resident for more than 50 years, is deeply involved in many aspects of the local community from the PTA to the PCC at All Saints Church. Although not an engineer by profession, she worked in an engineering company all her life and has learned a lot along the way. She now enjoys learning from experienced engineers and others at the Wokingham Repair Cafe. She has been at WUC for 12 years. She possesses an intimate knowledge of the Westende Almshouses, having supported their complex building and maintenance over the years. Anne's exceptional project management skills ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently and on time. Her contributions extend beyond maintenance, as she also plays a crucial role in managing the charity's finances and overall operations. Anne's valuable insights and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in the successful running of the charity.

Fun Fact: Anne has just given her skis to her granddaughter after 50 years off and on the slopes but hopes she will still need her walking boots for many more years!

Amy Garstang - Charity Manager

Amy oversees all organisational activity and day to day operations at Wokingham United Charities'. She supports in the management of Westende, helps to facilitate multiple grant programs, and spearheads the strategic planning that drives the organisation's direction. Amy provides invaluable support to all staff members, ensuring a harmonious and productive work environment. Furthermore, as Chair of the Hardship Alliance, Amy takes the lead in driving the delivery of the borough's Tackling Poverty Strategy, fostering collaborative partnerships, and actively participates in the development of initiative such as the Grant Funders Forum.

Fun Fact - Outside of work Amy will be out walking with her children and their black lab Bentley or teaching swimming!

Lynda Rowe - Westende Manager

Lynda has been at Westende for over 25 years. Her role is to oversee the maintenance of the building, the 27 Flats, and the well-being of the residents. Lynda loves the community atmosphere at Westende and enjoys organising social activities for the residents including coffee morning, Fish & Chip Lunch and of course, Bingo.

Fun Fact - When she's not working, Lynda likes spending time with her family and enjoys her annual trip to Bognor Regis for Butlins Big Weekender.

Susanna Jennings - Office & Grants Administrator

Susanna joined WUC following the pandemic to facilitate our essential item and relief-in-need grant programmes Susanna works closely with professional referrers, schools and local charities to deliver grant programmes to support people in the Wokingham Borough who are in poverty, hardship or distress.

Fun fact – Susanna is a mum to boys, so you’ll find her at the side of a football pitch cheering them on at the weekends! And for a relaxing treat, you’ll find her at the spa.

Michelle McCane-Whitney - Household Support Grant Administrator

Michelle came on board in June 2022 to process the Household Support Fund applications. She distributes cash, food, and energy vouchers to Wokingham Residents who are struggling during these challenging times. Michelle works closely with First Days Children’s Charity, Age UK Berkshire, and Citizens Advice Wokingham to ensure that applicants get the support that they need.

Fun fact – Michelle enjoys attending TV show conventions and Comic Cons as well as going to small venue live music events.