We believe that everyone has the right to a safe, secure, and affordable home
Homemaker's Trustees
The organisation is governed by a non-remunerated Board whose members are drawn from the local community and who between them have a diverse range of experience in areas such housing, law, human resources and equalities and human rights.
Richard Cresswell - Chair of Trustees
Richard has been a trustee of Homemaker Southwest since October 2003 and became the Chair of the Board in January 2007. He has successfully contributed his leadership and people management skills to our charity.
Previously he has been a Member of the North East Regional Assembly and its Executive, a Trustee of Sustainability South West, and Chair of Future Foundations (sustainable construction), Climate UK, and Climate South West.
Until 2014, Richard was Director for the Environment Agency in the South West of England. He currently chairs Wessex Water’s Catchment Panel, the Bristol Avon Catchment Partnership, and the Exeter Chiefs Supporters’ Club.
Richard received an MBE in July 2000 for services to the Environment.
Richard Ball - Trustee
Richard is now mostly retired but recently was Assistant Director for Economy and Tourism at Exeter City Council and Programme Director for the Innovation Exeter programme based at the University of Exeter. Has held Board positions at Exeter Science Park and the UK Science Park Association. Currently a parish councillor at Woodbury, East Devon.
Judith Froom - Trustee
Judy became a Trustee after retiring with 37 years financial experience within the social housing sector. Judy provides financial support to the staff and trustees through budget monitoring and reviewing of management accounts.
She has always lived in Devon and has an active interest in sport and the arts.
Amy Swayne - Trustee
Nicola Hall - Trustee
Paul Forsyth - Trustee
Seeking New Trustees for Our Board
Homemaker Southwest is recruiting new Trustees to strengthen and diversify our Board. This is an opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction and long‑term success of an established charity.
Founded in 2001 and based in Devon, Homemaker Southwest supports people experiencing hardship, vulnerability, or risk of homelessness. Our work is funded by local authorities, utilities, social landlords, and grant providers.
Our 12 staff members—including money advice and debt caseworkers—provide tailored support such as needs assessments, benefits guidance, budgeting help, debt management, court support for rent arrears, and assistance with moving into a new home.
All staff work is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
About the Trustee Role
We are looking for individuals who share our commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to a safe, secure, and affordable home, and who value treating people with dignity and respect.
As a registered charity, Homemaker is governed by a voluntary, non‑remunerated Board of Trustees responsible for key decision‑making and guiding organisational strategy.
The Board meets 4–6 times each year (typically four meetings via Zoom, 16:00–18:00, and one or two in‑person meetings in Exeter).
We welcome candidates with strong collaborative skills; previous trustee experience is not required.
Find Out More
For further details or to arrange an informal conversation, please contact the Chair of the Board, Richard Cresswell, at chair@homemakersw.org.uk.