Meet our Trustees
Nigel Lucas
Chairman
Nigel has a long career in Social Housing and he has worked for a Local Authority and a large Housing Association before moving to Almshouse charities. He is currently the Chief Executive of the Charity of Elizabeth Jane Jones and David Henry Waring Home charities, and Clerk to Heston Parochial Charities. He was the past Chairman of Staying First, a housing support charity, and a Board member of Shepherds Bush Housing Association.
Nigel is a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Housing and holds an MBA. His interests include history and astronomy and more recently gardening.
Susan Seery
Vice Chair
Susan has a 30 year background in property development and residential lettings.
She has worked alongside the homeless sector and has a particular interest in the changes affecting the residential lettings sector and its impact on landlords and tenants. Susan was a founding trustee of Tiny Tickers baby heart charity and has been a governor at Woodlands Special Needs School in Leatherhead for the last nine years and is a passionate advocate for adults with learning disabilities having a disabled daughter herself. She has four daughters and is a very keen gardener.
Michael Farr
Secretary
Michael is a practising solicitor, specialising in property matters and civil disputes at a firm in Esher. He has previous experience of working with people facing homelessness or vulnerable housing, both at a winter night shelter and in supported accommodation. Michael was also an Adviser with Citizens Advice Bureau. He is delighted to be part of an innovative organisation which is helping people in need. He enjoys playing squash and cooking (although not at the same time!)
Clare Forrester
Clare is a business development, strategy and partnerships specialist, with 10 years’ experience securing large-scale government contracts across a range of public service sectors including employability, skills, health, justice, and youth. Her work has given her an insight into the critical role housing plays in allowing individuals to reach their potential, and the vital role that innovative community organisations like Rentstart play in meeting this need. Clare spends most of her free time chasing her young son around, but also loves reading, cooking and gardening.
Les Holmes
Les is a retired detective having had a career in Safeguarding Children and Adults. Following a 30 year career as a serving Police officer, specialising in Safeguarding he became a trainer in Safeguarding and Risk Assessment for the public and private sectors. Les has worked with agencies/charities in order to write and implement Safeguarding policies and procedures. He is now a Safeguarding Caseworker for a national/international charity in which he provides advice and support. He has five adult children and nine grandchildren. He has a passion for cycling.