Our Board of Trustees

Originally from Birmingham, Carly now lives in Staffordshire, but is keen to keep a connection to her Brummie roots! She has extensive experience across a wide range of organisations in the voluntary sector, is currently Chief Executive of Together Active, and was previously CEO of SIFA Fireside. With her degree in International Relations and Peace Studies, Carly has spoken at national conferences on subjects including modern slavery, impact of government policy on homelessness, rough sleeping and the role of the commercial sector in sustainable employment for those who have experienced homelessness. In her free time, she can always be found with her two rescue dogs.

Suzie grew up in Birmingham, and after a 12 year stint in London, returned to her home city 8 years ago. She has been a Trustee for Gilgal ever since, and brings to the table over 20 years’ experience in branding and marketing. She is works full time, is a mum of two, has been married for 18 years, and enjoys leading a life group for her Church, along with the occasional run. 

Louise joined Gilgal as a Trustee in 2023. The charity’s core values resonated with her, recognising the importance of providing a safe and secure place for women to receive support and rebuild their lives.  
 
As a Registered Services Manager in a Youth Homelessness Charity, Louise has valuable transferrable skills that she brings to Gilgal, including understanding regulatory requirements for good standards of accommodation and support. Louise is passionate in supporting the strategic growth of Gilgal. In her spare time, Louise is studying CMI accredited Level 7- Senior Leadership. On a rare day off, she loves nothing more than spending time in the garden and going on adventure days out.

Yvette was led to join Gilgal as a Trustee through her passion to support and help women and children who are at a crisis point in their lives. She has worked in the voluntary sector for over 40 years in different organisations and roles; a women’s rehabilitation centre, a community development trust, and a youth homelessness charity. She is also an active volunteer within her church, has been a parent governor, and is involved in many other local committee groups. She enjoys gardening and looking after her grandchildren.

Ken has a professional background in education, with 20 years’ experience as a Head of Year and teaching R.E and Ethics and, before retiring, was promoted to Head of Upper School (14-19) and Child Protection Officer in a large Comprehensive School. He got involved in Gilgal when it was a vision of what it might become, and is very proud to still be involved today. He has two children and four grandchildren, but still manages to find time to reinvent himself as Gilgal’s Father Christmas to entertain the children staying at the refuge each year. 

Cindy has over 25 years of experience in the primary school sector, teaching all over the world including Thailand, South Korea, Trinidad, Montserrat and, of course, England. She has a keen interest in the education and development of young women and children, and was led to the Gilgal board through the EndItNow initiative – a drive to stop violence against women and children – which she discovered through her involvement with her local church’s Women’s Ministry Department.

Brenda is the Youth Service Manager for St Basils, and has over 30 years’ experience working with young people in the voluntary sector. Her previous roles have contributed towards  improved housing and the prevention of homelessness, and she joined the Gilgal Board in 2022. 
 
Born and bred in Birmingham, she is passionate about women supporting other women and their children. In her spare time, she enjoys reading horror, fantasy and sci-fi, watching anime and K-Pop dramas, and spending time with friends and family.

Elaine Barrett was born and raised in Birmingham, where she continues to reside. After a 35-year career at the Local Council, now-retired Elaine brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Gilgal Board.

During her tenure, she served as a Benefits Manager on the Hostels and Supported Accommodation Team, where she gained valuable insights into the diverse challenges faced by individuals in various circumstances. This role in particular equipped her to contribute meaningfully to Gilgal’s mission and goals.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Elaine is a committed Christian who actively engages in voluntary work at her church striving to uplift and support those in need. She enjoys travelling, cooking, and looking after her grandchildren.