Who we are

Hannah

Hannah has a background in banking, finance and people management. After completing her level 5 diploma in leadership and management in residential care, she became our Operations Manager.

“We help show young women they can do anything, with a bit of support and guidance, it can be achieved.”

Alison

Alison has experienced the work of Contact firsthand, staying with when she needed support. In 2004, she became part of the team to help others.

“Contact is not only a lovely, supportive place to live for the young women, it's also a lovely, supportive place to work.”

Helen

Helen joined Contact in 2023, with a variety of local and national charity experience up her sleeve.

“I can honestly say Contact is one of the most inspirational places I’ve ever had the pleasure of working. The positivity and support are evident the minute you walk through the door.”

Karen

Karen has worked as a Senior Support Worker here since 2010, helping with everything from daily cleaning duties to supporting the girls with practical living skills and offering emotional support.

“I get immense job satisfaction from seeing the changes we make to each young person, as they grow in confidence and go on to succeed in their lives.”

Alex

Having been a nursing home healthcare assistant before going on to become a support worker, Alex has so much experience working with vulnerable individuals and their families.

“Working at Contact, I’m able to support young people to become a better version of themselves and give back to society.”

Phyllis

Phyllis has worked in many areas of Social Health Care, including NHS, Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol, Offenders, Homelessness and Young People.

“I see Contact as a beacon of hope. Offering calm, open-mindedness, comfort and transformation to all who live and work here.”

Lisa

Before working at Contact, Lisa was a Special Educational Needs support worker at her local primary school, delivering 1:1 support to children with additional needs.

“With a warm, homely atmosphere and the friendliest of staff, our aim is to help young women realise their full potential and go forward in life with confidence and positivity - and to succeed in whatever they want to achieve.”

Victoria

Victoria joined the team in 2024 to support with admin, fundraising and our services.

“I was drawn to come and work for a local charity and do something worthwhile to feel like I’m giving back. I’m really enjoying learning about fundraising and every day is different here.”

Chair of Trustees

Laura joined us as a trustee in 2020, becoming our Chair in 2023. Laura has worked with vulnerable young people and children in education for many years – most recently as Assistant Headteacher and Special Educational Needs Coordinator at a residential school for 7-19 year olds with complex mental health and additional needs.

“I joined Contact as I wanted to be a part of such a lovely group of people who are making sure young women in our local community are getting the housing, access to services, love and continued care they deserve. I’m privileged to take on the role, a natural next step for everything I strive to achieve for our tenacious girls, inspiring staff and wonderful trustees.”

Megan Walden-Jones

Megan is an Architectural Designer, specialising in Housing Design within urban communities. She’s passionate about creating quality places to live and recognising the importance of a home for all. Hoping to embed herself within the local community, she was inspired by Contact's efforts to support young women within a home environment, through education and into independent living.

Jane Murison

Jane’s career has been all about doing good with digital. She is an experienced Digital Design and Research leader, having helped build BBC iPlayer. Now, as Design Director at Reason Digital, a Manchester-based social enterprise, Jane delivers digital experiences and research projects for charities like Refuge, Mencap and Anna Freud Centre.

“Contact is a cause close to my heart and in my community, I want to make sure all young women are getting the care and support they need to achieve their goals, no matter the circumstances they’ve been dealt.”

Kirsty Mansfield

Kirsty is an HR Specialist who’s worked for many different organisations across many sectors, including not-for-profit.

“I have actively supported Manchester-based charities that support women and children for many years. Contact’s work really interests me and aligns with my values and I’m proud to represent them as a trustee.”

Eram Akram

Born, educated and having lived locally in Whalley Range, Employee Relations specialist, Eram joined Contact as a trustee in 2024.

“I’m passionate about diversity, equality and inclusion, and am deeply proud of my South Asian culture. As a single mum, I know how important it is that young people are provided with a safe and stable space to learn and grow. I am proud to be a small part of providing this via my involvement.

Liz Sweeney

Liz is a partner in a large national law firm, specialising in real estate finance. She is passionate about social mobility and making sure girls from all backgrounds are given the opportunity to thrive, develop essential life skills and feel optimistic about the future.

“I’ve followed the work Contact do for several years. When I saw they needed trustees with a legal background, I didn’t hesitate. The type of support Contact provide for young women is so important and is needed now more than ever...”