Staff & Trustees

Say Hello To Our Staff & Trustees

This incredible organisation that is committed to fundraising for disabled people would not exist if it were not for the skilled and trusted individuals who have made it possible. We recruit only the most caring and committed people who fight for the same values we treasure, and this makes all the difference. They are prepared to take the necessary action to fully support disabled individuals and we are so grateful to have them as part of our community.

OUR TRUSTEES

Graham DayChair of the Board of Trustees

At the beginning of 2020, Graham and a Working Group of disabled people and council officers joined forces to create a new D/deaf and Disabled People's Organisation in Haringey. Graham was not only one of the first Trustees, but is also currently Chair, a job which includes many daily challenges.

Graham’s passion is championing the voices of disabled people in Haringey, and he is eager to get Disability Action Haringey off the ground. During his personal time, Graham enjoys participating in wheelchair tennis at the local sports centre.

Andrew CarpenterTrustee

Andrew is autistic and was diagnosed as an adult. He is the Autism Lead for NHS England (NHSE), London Region. In his previous role, he was the Dementia Programme Lead and statutory Autism Lead for the Bi-borough councils in London (Westminster and the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea), as well as co-Chairing the disability staff network.

As an Expert by Experience and outside of his paid role, Andrew is also an NHSE Peer Leader and Public Champion for Personalised Care and Social Prescribing in London. He has a background in delivering training and consultancy on Personalisation in Health and Social Care.

He trains on autism, with a particular interest in autism without a co-occurring learning disability and adapting therapeutic practice in mental health settings.

Isha TurayTrustee

Isha has been a carer to her disabled husband for over 25 years, which has contributed towards her good and clear understanding of the overall caring needs but also the discriminatory practices in society at large, for people with disabilities and others experience.

Isha was one of the Working Group members during the formation of DAH and proceeded to become a Trustee, continuing to support DAH through their journey to creating a more inclusive and accessible Haringey. Isha is also the Chairwoman of the Carer’s Reference Group and a member of Haringey's Joint Partnership Board.

Having worked and lived in Haringey for over 35 years, Isha is well averse with the diverse cultures of the community which Haringey represents, and is able to connect with many members of the community and the issues that they experience.

Nnenna AgbasonuTrustee

With a passion for numbers and an unyielding commitment to continuous learning, Nnenna has navigated a dynamic career in finance and accounting that spans five years. It's the remarkable journey that's been powered by determination and the courage to embrace challenges, including learning later as an adult that she is Dyslexic.

Dyslexia may present challenges, but Nnenna has turned it into an advantage, the journey hasn't been without hurdles but Nnenna is a testament to the power of residence and determination in the face of adversity. She is a lifelong learner, driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge.

In the realm of volunteering, Nnenna has taken on roles such as a School Governor, monitoring academic performance and ensuring a positive learning environment is created for all students. As a Trustee Treasurer of DAH, overseeing financial management and ensuring transparency and effective use of funds.

Patricia CharlesworthTrustee

Patricia is a dedicated founding member of Disability Action Haringey and has played an integral role in championing the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Her commitment and her participation in the Working Group further demonstrated her passion for creating positive change.

Patricia identifies herself as a person with a Learning Disability, and her journey has led her to become an active participant in various organisations that share a common mission: empowering D/deaf and disabled individuals, to find their voice and advocate for their rights.

DAH STAFF TEAM

Phil StevensChief Executive Officer

Phil Stevens – Chief Executive Officer As the CEO of Disability Action Haringey, Phil Stevens is responsible for the daily management of the organisation and reports directly to DAH’s Board of Trustees. Phil ensures the smooth running of DAH’s services, which include Benefits Advice, the Direct Payment Peer-To-Peer Support and Training Programme, and the Personal Care Assistant Marketing Service.

Phil Stevens has campaigned both locally in Islington and nationally for disability rights since he developed a disability in 2003. He was previously a Trustee for Circle Support, an organisation that promotes and supports disabled people to live both independently and in supported housing. In 2018 Phil gained his law degree at the University of London Birkbeck. <p>Phil is currently the Chair of the Metropolitan Police Independent Disability Advisory Panel. He was raised in Kent and moved to London in 1995. He is married, with seven children and four grandchildren. His passion is everything equestrian and canine.

Rachel CloneySupport Worker & PA to CEO

Rachel is a seasoned Executive Assistant known for her exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail. With her extensive experience in administrative support roles, she ensures the smooth operation of executive offices. Rachel brings with her over 30 years of expertise in managing complex calendars, coordinating meetings, and handling correspondence. She has a proven track record of supporting high-level executives and seamlessly managing day-to-day administrative tasks with efficiency and professionalism. She approaches a proactive mindset and understands the importance of confidentiality.

Rachel continues to excel in her role as an Executive Assistant and is committed to further enhancing her skills and contributing to the success of the executive team.

Greig CloneyDirect Payments and Independent Living Advisor

Greig plays a vital role in supporting independent living for individuals by offering expert advice and guidance. His primary responsibilities include providing valuable information to Direct Payments users, assisting with benefits advice, and managing training programs. Greig's extensive experience spans over two decades in client management within the banking industry, coupled with five years in the fitness sector. This combination of skills has equipped him with a unique perspective and a strong foundation to excel in his current role at DAH. Beyond his professional expertise, Greig is deeply passionate about sport and fitness. His commitment to living a positive and healthy lifestyle has been a driving force in his life. This enthusiasm for health and well-being is contagious, as Greig actively shares his knowledge and encourages others to embrace a more active and healthy lifestyle. His approach to independent living is rooted in empowerment, enabling clients to make informed choices that enhance their quality of life.

Lydia SilverDirect Payments and Independent Living Advisor

Lydia has a background in the charity sector, focusing on fostering inclusion and tackling social inequalities. Lydia has experience as an Events Co-Ordinator at the Talking Taboos Foundation, a charity promoting frank conversations about stigmatised topics. Additionally, as a research intern with Support in Spain, a non-profit in collaboration with the British Embassy in Madrid, she worked to improve access to welfare services for vulnerable British expats. While completing her BA in Sociology at the University of Birmingham, Lydia explored the structural roots of inequality, inspiring her commitment to building inclusive communities. She is passionate about translating this commitment into action, drawing on her skills in project coordination and research. Lydia is dedicated to ensuring accessibility and inclusion are not just principles but are embedded in everyday life.

Darren WillbourneProject Lead

Darren has worked in numerous voluntary and community sector roles over the past 25+ years across both the North and South UK. His experience includes bid writing, community development, staff and organisational management and a broad range of communication and IT skills.

Darren was drawn to the role having lived in the local area and having an affinity with carers and health & wellbeing services.

Andrea BindiDirect Payments & Independent Living Advisor

Andrea's working background spans reception, recruitment, and event planning, where she developed a strong appreciation for the power of a compassionate, person-centred approach. Andrea believes that a single conversation can make a profound difference in someone’s life. A graduate of Nottingham Trent University with a 2:1 degree in Psychology, Andrea focused her studies on mental health and wellbeing, gaining a deep understanding of intersectionality and its impact on lived experiences. During her time at university, she completed a social action project aimed at improving the quality of life for children within the healthcare system, reinforcing her commitment to creating positive change. Since graduating, Andrea has dedicated herself to enhancing the lives of Haringey residents. Whether working within the council to create enjoyable activities for adults with learning disabilities or advising individuals on how Direct Payments can empower independence, Andrea is passionate about promoting inclusion and improving quality of life across the community.

OUR VOLUNTEERS

Deniz
Purvangi
Daisey
Pearl
Maria