Trustees

Jackie Holland, Chair

I’m happily married to Mark and we have two grown-up sons. Our youngest, Charlie, still volunteers for Grapevine Essex when he can. I have worked part-time in Central London for over 30 years and I manage Grapevine Essex on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Monika Kelly, Treasurer

I am married with five grown up children, one of whom has learning disabilities. She has been a member of Grapevine for several years and is enjoying all the outings, clubs and social events. These enable her to have a normal social life, which is fundamental for her well-being. I have worked in education for 25 years and have been a volunteer throughout my children's lives in their play-schools, clubs and primary schools.

Emma Wyatt, Secretary

I’m married to Trevor and have a son called Charlie. I taught young people with disabilities for many years and still work in education by creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. I absolutely love volunteering for Grapevine and find it incredibly rewarding.

Vanessa Hellier, Trustee

I am happily married to Brian and we have two grown up children. They used to enjoy helping at Grapevine Essex events wherever possible, but now have both moved away. I am a full time carer for several clients. I run the Grapevine Dance Group on Monday evenings and Club Grapevine social club on Tuesdays.

Jane Crossman, Trustee

My husband Lawrence and I have 3 sons, and before my retirement, I worked with students with learning difficulties. As a Gamesmaker with the 2012 Olympics, I was inspired to continue volunteering and feel very privileged to now be part of this amazing charity. I admire the hard work and commitment of everyone involved and I love joining in and having fun with our lovely members.

Sue Johns, Trustee

I have worked with children for over forty years as a nursery nurse and teacher. I am married to Steve and have one grown up daughter.

Mary Schultz, Trustee

Married to Pete with one lovely daughter. I became involved with Grapevine as it is such a wonderful, vibrant and new organisation and I immediately felt at home with all their beliefs, policies and the sincere way in which they interact with all members. I took early retirement from full-time teaching and in addition to Grapevine, I am very involved with Dance 21.

Peter Schultz, Trustee

I am married to Mary and we have a daughter, Ellen, who has Down Syndrome. Ellen loves Grapevine Essex and always looks forward to their activities and excursions. Following a career spanning over 25 years in the Music Business and latterly 10 years as an independent retailer, I am now enjoying retirement.

Adrian Heighes, Trustee

Simon Jones, Trustee

I have been working with alternative needs for over fifteen years and love what I do. I currently work in a local college teaching adults with a broad spectrum of needs. I love working for Grapevine and it is amazing to see the inclusive and fun environment provided for our members. I honestly feel very privileged to support this amazing group of individuals and I am honoured to be a trustee. In my spare time I am a classic comedy actor and I enjoy metal detecting. If you own any land or know someone who will let me discover the history beneath our feet, please do get in touch. simon@grapevineessex.org.uk 😊