Tim Southern (Chair)

I have worked in the care sector most of my life and in the Shared Lives field for over 24 years as a Coordinator, Scheme Manager and CEO. I have been a short break foster carer and volunteer as a driver, litter picking coordinator and befriender.

I am an experienced leader with skills in Staff management, development and support and recruitment. I have practical skills in managing and supporting Shared Lives Carers with particular skills in legislation and compliance. My previous experience as a trustee and chair of Shared Lives Plus helps me provide support and guidance with governance.

People who are supported within Shared Lives settings enjoy ordinary family life while developing their confidence, skills and abilities with support which is specifically tailored to their needs and they invariably love it.

Rachel Lindsay (Vice Chair)

I have spent most of my working life in social care as a social worker and a commissioner.

My experience in social care and working with different councils really helps me in my Trustee role.  I have spent lots of time with people who are autistic or have a learning disability and that’s really helpful too.

Shared Lives is really good at supporting people to have a great life in fantastic local homes.

Nick Jones

I have over 30 years experience at executive Board level as a Senior HR leader, coach and mentor across both multiple industry sectors and all ownership models. Outside work I have played sport to a high competitive level and have enjoyed coaching youth teams.

During my career I acted as a trusted advisor to Chief Executives or owners of a business particularly in areas such as organisational development, change management and leadership. This experience has enabled me to contribute as a Trustee of SLSW.

Shared Lives provides a truly person centred approach to providing care and support for vulnerable adults in our community.

Michael Knight

I have spent 50 years working in the accountancy profession, serving on the boards of listed companies, and advising other public interest entities on risk management and corporate governance issues.

My main areas of interest centre on financial reporting, risk management and corporate governance both in commercial enterprises and not for profit organisations.

Shared Lives is successful as it has a clear vision, coupled with a linked and coherent strategy, delivered by a well qualified and enthusiastic leadership team.

Dominic Myers

Maureen Read

After many different jobs, I took a degree in law, became a solicitor and then a Judge. Being a Judge is a privilege, as is volunteering for Shared Lives.

I have been a trustee with Shared Lives since 2021.

Life skills acquired through a varied career help me in my role as a trustee. Such skills include patience, listening and making considered decisions.

Shared lives is for the people by the people.

Lesley Stacy-Marks

I bring a professional life of working within local authority social services and the National Probation Service to  being a trustee for Shared Lives South West.

I like clear information and patience.

At Shared Lives South West what’s of paramount importance is the welfare of the individual and that they are allowed to develop within their potential.

Tim Golby

I worked for more than 35 years for Devon County Council. Initially, this was in the finance team where I qualified as an accountant, but I then moved into various social care roles, which included operational roles.

I finished my career in commissioning with a short spell as Director before retiring in 2022.

I have a strong belief in supporting the most vulnerable in society and enabling people to achieve the most from their lives as independently as possible. As a trustee, I will look to use my experience and skills to achieve this, ensuring that the voices of people who are using Shared Lives are always heard.

I believe Shared Lives South West works so well as it’s a personalised service that gives people the chance to lead meaningful lives in a family setting alongside enduring friendships and support.

Dr Gulzar Singh

I have built my career in senior banking and transformation roles with organisations such as Barclays, HDFC Bank, Capgemini, and Facctum, focusing on governance, operational leadership, and strategic change. I now lead Phoenix Empire Ltd and contribute my experience to boards and community initiatives across the UK.

I bring experience in strategic leadership, governance, and organisational transformation, built through senior roles in large and complex organisations. I focus on clear decision-making, partnership working, and supporting teams to deliver strong outcomes for the people we serve.

Shared Lives succeeds because it is built on meaningful relationships, personalised support, and a model of care that values dignity, connection, and genuine belonging.

Claire Higdon

My main career has been focused on healthcare service management in a wide variety of settings, both locally in the south west, nationally and overseas.

My passion is the use of technology to improve both patient outcomes, their experience and the workforce delivering direct care and in supporting roles. My main hobbies are equestrian, cooking and walking the dogs.

My ability to communicate tech to non-tech people is one of my key skills, often acting as a bridge from tech to end user. I expect to bring this skill to my role as trustee on the board alongside my knowledge of navigating the wider and local NHS system.

I first learned about adult placement when working in a ‘connecting health and social care’ programme. I think that Shared Lives is a much better ‘wrapper’ for this fantastic initiative to match people who are able to provide a home and support for people who otherwise would not experience home living.