Our Team

Rachel brings over 20 years of experience in the education and mental health sectors across the UK and Australia. She has worked as a secondary school teacher, consultant, and most recently as a state manager leading a large multidisciplinary team delivering Australia’s national mental health in schools initiative. Rachel is currently studying for an MSc in Occupational Psychology, serves as a school governor in Bristol, and is happiest when in the garden.

“Seeing how our staff care for people, strive to make an impact for those who need it most, and genuinely collaborate with the community and city makes me proud to be part of Bristol Charities.”

Charity joined the team in September 2020, and is Head of Community Development. She has worked across numerous sectors such as the NHS, Finance, IT and Construction. She is a Prince2 qualified, green belt Lean Six Sigma trained project manager. She is devoted to driving change forward, and has an unquenchable optimism and vision of a better future. Charity is passionate about childhood enrichment, reducing isolation, and community.

“Working with Bristol Charities is rewarding because our work tangibly improves lives across the city. I value being part of a community-rooted organisation committed to meaningful, long-term change. Every project feels purposeful-whether developing inclusive community hubs, supporting vulnerable individuals, or strategically using commercial assets for social good. Combining strategic thinking with social impact is deeply fulfilling.”

Hello, I’m Catherine, Community Connector in Stockwood. I’ve lived here for over 20 years with my family and also chair our community park friends group, organising events, fundraising, and working to enhance the area. My background includes 15 years in statutory social care in South Bristol, followed by experience in customer-facing support roles within Ed Tech. I enjoy meeting people and exploring new places.

Hannah has been involved in the VCSE sector in Bristol for over 20 years as both an employee and volunteer and joined the Bristol Charities team in 2022. She has a dual role as Grants Officer and Vassall Centre Hub Support.

“I love the variety that having two roles within the organisation brings – one day I might be awarding a grant to someone setting up their very first home, and the next singing karaoke with older members of the community at our Lunch Club!”

Polly has previously coordinated and supported volunteers and active residents for Shelter, The Network Bristol and a range of community and professional theatre projects. Her work as a theatre-maker and storyteller has taken her into lots of different communities and organisations, from social care charities to outdoor Shakespeare!

“I find it rewarding meeting local people and connecting them with each other – and watching how that changes things from the ground up!”

I’m Sam and have always lived in Stockwood. My main interests are wildlife and volunteering, both of which I’m enjoying learning more about. I also love books and tend to collect more than I read. You’ll often find me walking in open spaces, taking photos, or helping with local conservation activities. My experience includes working in a cafe, at a forest school, and now as a community connector in Stockwood, focusing on bringing people together and building on local strengths.

Jess has many years experience working in community development and engaging with people from all walks of life. Her qualifications and experience includes community development, capacity building in a community context, volunteer management, project/programme management, charity/corporate partnerships and co-production.

“I am excited & privileged to be working with a wonderful group of people who, like me, have a passion and drive to develop a fantastic community hub; an asset to a diversity of people within our community.”

Paul is a Chartered Accountant and has been Finance Director of Bristol Charities since joining in July 2020. Prior to this Paul has held a number of finance leadership and management roles within not-for-profit organisations, including Finance Manager for a large ecclesiastical charity and Chief Financial Officer for a South West-based education trust. Paul initially qualified in accountancy practice, specialising in educational and charitable organisations, and has since also undertaken a number of non-executive roles, including trustee of a local charity and governor of his local primary school.

“My affinity for the city of Bristol, combined with Bristol Charities’ legacy of lasting positive change in the city, make it such a great charity to work for. It’s a privilege to be able to apply my skills and expertise to this amazing cause.”

Diana’s background is in charity finance and charity leadership, where she’s held a number of leadership positions over the last 25 years. She ran the Bristol Pound in its final years, and has written a book about the changes that are needed in our economic system to address humanity’s growing social and environmental problems.

“It’s great to be working with an organisation that both has such a long history and is open to changing itself to keep pace with the ever-changing needs of today.”

Michelle joined Bristol Charities in October 2024 following 21.5 years working as a Business Manager in primary school. The role gave experience in finance, HR, H&S and everything else that happens within a school setting! As a trustee of a local church, who support a school in Zambia, a visit to the school a couple of years ago was a life-changing.

“I’m passionate about customer care and high standards so that Bristol Charities provides an excellent resource for people and organisations to meet and achieve their objectives.”

Sophie has a proven track record in neuroscience research, the arts, and social change sectors. With a 20-year career in the VCSE sector, she has driven sustainable growth, fostered impactful collaborations, and built strong partnerships. Communicating impact and purpose has been central to ensuring initiatives create meaningful, lasting change.

“I love my city and am thrilled to build partnerships and secure funding that empower communities and the VCSE sector to tackle inequality and deprivation across Bristol. By fostering collaboration, we can create lasting, meaningful change.”

Aidan brings 13 years of multimedia and communications expertise to Bristol Charities, helping share the organisation’s story and impact. With a background in web design, branding, and creative team management, he is passionate about using digital strategy and compelling community storytelling to support meaningful work. As Communications and Fundraising Coordinator at North Bristol & South Gloucestershire Foodbank, Aidan is committed to building a fairer, more food-secure city.

“I find charitable sector work fulfilling, and love telling stories. Bristol Charities is at an exciting juncture which I’m proud to play a part in with a great team.”