Meet the Pawfessionals: Teddy & Milo

Teddy – Chief Comfort Officer (CCO)
Teddy is the calm, contemplative type—the wise old soul in the room who always knows when someone needs a cuddle or a calming moment. With a resume full of emotional support and strategic napping, Teddy ensures the office vibes stay balanced and zen. When he's not inspecting biscuit supplies or supervising quiet moments, you’ll find him curled up in his favorite spot, contemplating social justice or just the next snack.

Milo – Director of Mischief & Morale
Milo is the younger, cheekier brother with a nose for mischief and a heart full of love. Equal parts clown and cuddle machine, Milo keeps spirits high and laughter rolling. He specialises in office zoomies, sock thievery, and spontaneous team-building exercises (usually involving tennis balls). Milo ensures no day goes by without a smile—his tail-wagging enthusiasm is absolutely contagious.

Together, Teddy and Milo form the unofficial Houndquarters of First People. They're more than mascots—they’re mindfulness mentors, joy distributors, and the four-legged heartbeat of the team. Because changing the world is serious work… but someone’s got to keep it pawsitive.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & LEAD THERAPIST

Meet Wendy: Our CEO: A Passionate Advocate for Empowerment

Contact Wendy:

Email: wendy@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Wendy on 07733 919 688

MBACP Registration Number 417268

Wendy founded First People Housing CIC in April 2022, driven by a deep commitment to supporting individuals facing homelessness and vulnerability. Prior to this, her extensive experience in the social care sector spanned two decades, encompassing diverse areas like substance misuse, domestic violence, and criminal justice. Previously, she served as Operations Director at Druglink and later transitioned to a Consultant CQC Registered Manager role at a leading global medical and pharmaceutical company.

Wendy's passion lies in empowering individuals to believe in themselves and achieve positive change, no matter how seemingly small. This dedication is reflected in her leadership style and her unwavering support for our residents. Her efforts have been recognized through two consecutive "Care Leadership Awards" and "Most Innovative Care Team" awards from the Hertfordshire Care Providers Association. Additionally, she has contributed valuable insights to various publications focused on the issue of homelessness.

Beyond her extensive experience, Wendy holds a diverse range of qualifications:

• Qualified Counsellor: Equipped to provide therapeutic support and guidance.

• NLP Master Practitioner, Trainer and Coach: Possesses advanced skills in personal development and coaching methodologies.

• Level 5 Award in Leadership in Health & Social Care: Demonstrates expertise in leadership and management within the healthcare and social care sectors.

• Qualified Health and Wellness Coach: Empowers individuals to achieve their personal health and well-being goals.

• Currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Addiction Psychology and Counselling: Continuously expanding her knowledge and skillset to better serve the needs of our residents.

Wendy's leadership and dedication creates a foundation of unwavering support and empowerment for individuals seeking to build a brighter future.

DIRECTOR of PARTNERSHIPS

Meet Kieran: From Business Leader to Champion for Change

Contact Kieran:

Email: kieran@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Kieran on 07895 242 773

Kieran joined First People Housing CIC in November 2023, leveraging his 30 years of private sector experience to manage our service operations. This career shift reflects his passion for supporting those experiencing homelessness and substance misuse.

Kieran's journey began in January 2019 with volunteering at a local drug and alcohol service, where his empathy and positivity shone through. He then transitioned to a paid role in their night shelter, gaining invaluable firsthand experience during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Kieran's dedication led him to Druglink in March 2021, where he managed a housing project for individuals facing similar challenges. He brings a unique blend of business acumen and social sector experience, further enhanced by his Master Practitioner qualification in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).

Kieran's diverse skillset and unwavering commitment prove him to be an invaluable asset to our team.

DIRECTOR of OPERATIONS and SERVICES

Meet Mark: Builder of calm in the chaos — with spreadsheets, heart, and a side of humour.

Contact Mark:

Email: mark@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Mark on 07557 788 443

Mark joined the First People Housing CIC team in November 2022, bringing over three decades of leadership experience across local authorities and community initiatives. His expertise spans health and safety, regulation, and legal operations — and as a landlord himself, he brings a grounded understanding of property management and the high standards that define our homes.

As Director of Operations & Services, Mark’s role bridges structure and soul — making sure our services run smoothly while nurturing the people who make them possible. His calm, people-centred approach helps keep the organisation steady, even in the whirlwind of housing and community work.

Mark’s commitment to growth runs deep. He’s completed the Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills and is a qualified NLP Master Practitioner and Coach, combining professional precision with emotional intelligence. This blend allows him to support both our team and the individuals we serve — helping people reconnect, rebuild, and thrive.

Alongside his work with First People Housing, Mark is also a point of contact for The Hideout Collective CIC, a social enterprise that transforms unique spaces — from barges to cabins — into creative escapes offering training and opportunities for men with lived experience of homelessness and addiction. It’s a project that reflects his belief that second chances build the strongest foundations.

DIRECTOR OF SUPPORT & DEVELOPMENT

Meet Jo - Champion of calm, courage, and second chances.

Contact Jo:

Email: jo@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Jo 07833 818 190

Joanne leads our supported housing teams across Hertfordshire and London, bringing a rare blend of compassion, sharp strategy, and steady leadership. With over a decade of third-sector experience — including work with Citizens Advice and Age UK — she understands the everyday realities people face and the systemic barriers that shape them.

Before stepping into the world of social impact, Joanne spent 25 years as a Naval Architect in London. That engineering mindset still runs quietly through her work today: practical problem-solving, clear planning, and a talent for seeing solutions where others see complexity.

Joanne is a registered Psychotherapist specialising in addiction and compulsive behaviours, and she’s a graduate member of the British Psychological Society. She is currently completing her Masters in Addiction Psychology and Counselling, with research focused on treatment approaches within the Criminal Justice System — work that strengthens both our practice and our understanding as an organisation.

Driven by a deep commitment to social inclusion, Joanne brings a calm, grounded presence to the people we support and the teams she leads. Her work centres on empowerment, dignity, and helping individuals move towards lives they can feel proud of.

AREA DIRECTOR OF SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT FOR HERTFORDSHIRE 

Meet Mark – Never late and always positive

Contact Mark:

Email: mark.d@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Mark on 07553 028 202

I’ve joined First People Housing after four action-packed years in the Integrated Discharge Team at Hertfordshire County Council, based in Lister Hospital, Stevenage. No two days in A&E were ever the same — and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m hoping things stay just as lively here at FPH because I love a challenge (and maybe a bit of chaos).

I’m passionate about helping and advocating for people when life gets tough. Before joining the council, I worked with a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Service, where I learned how powerful a person-centred approach can be — guiding people to make safe, sustainable choices and rebuild lives that feel like their own again.

I’m excited to bring that energy and experience to First People Housing — where we’re growing, evolving, and making a difference for our people and our communities every single day.

LONDON LEAD

Meet Brian – Calm, capable, and always London-ready

Contact Brian:

Email: brian@firstpeople.org.uk

Email: Call/WhatsApp/Text Brian on 07554 556 257

I’m a passionate social care professional with a knack for seeing the person behind the paperwork. Over the years, I’ve supported people from all walks of life — across mental health outreach, youth offending teams, and homelessness projects — and I’ve learned that empathy and persistence are the real superpowers in this work.

My approach is all about empowerment: helping people make positive, lasting changes through compassion, collaboration, and a hefty dose of common sense. I’ve also volunteered with mental health charities and youth services because I believe community starts with showing up — and I like to practice what I preach.

With experience in mental health, substance misuse, and youth offending, I bring strong skills in assessment, recovery-focused interventions, and partnership working. I’m committed to advocating for others and helping both clients and colleagues build confidence and resilience.

I hold an MSc in Social Work, a BSc in Psychology, and a Diploma in Counselling Skills — and I’m currently completing an MSc in Addiction, Psychology, and Counselling at London South Bank University.

Being part of First People Housing means helping London’s communities thrive — and that’s a challenge I’m proud to lead.

ADMINSTRATOR

Meet Debra – Calm in the chaos, queen of the spreadsheets

Contact Debra:

Email: debra@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Debra on 07596 234 312

I joined the First People Housing family in April 2024 as the Administrator. My road here has been anything but ordinary (and I wouldn’t have it any other way!).

I’ve worn many hats over the years — from managing the fast-paced world of telecoms to pouring tea and good vibes as a café owner, and even navigating the buzz of retail. Every step gave me new skills and stories, and most importantly, a deep love for people from all walks of life.

Before joining FPH, I hadn’t worked directly with individuals facing homelessness, addiction, or offending behaviour. But witnessing our clients’ journeys — from those first tentative steps to finding real stability — has been both humbling and inspiring.

So what do I bring to the table?
Organisation, efficiency, and a genuine commitment to making sure the wheels keep turning. My admin experience keeps the paperwork neat, the housing benefit claims flowing, and the support team free to focus on what truly matters: our clients’ recovery and growth.

This chapter at First People Housing has been one of the most fulfilling of my career. I’m proud to be part of a team that turns compassion into action — one form, one phone call, and one success story at a time.

ADMINISTRATOR

Meet Tracy -

‍Contact Tracy:

Email: tracy@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Tracy on

ADMINISTRATION AND CLIENTS SERVICES

Meet Yvonne – Unflappable, unstoppable, and always with a smile

Contact Yvonne:

Email: yvonne@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text on 07443 320 815

I’ve built my career around people — connecting with them, supporting them, and finding solutions that make life just that little bit easier. I bring a mix of professionalism, warmth, and good humour to everything I do (the last one’s essential, trust me!).

Before joining First People Housing, my journey took me through senior roles in sales, marketing, and human resources, where I honed my skills in communication, organisation, and problem-solving. Along the way, I’ve worked with individuals and teams across sectors, building strong relationships and creating systems that help everyone work smarter, not harder.

With experience in customer relations, people management, and business development, I thrive in environments where compassion meets efficiency. I’m also proud to hold an HNC in Marketing — a qualification that’s served me well in everything from creative campaigns to community engagement.

Now, as part of the First People Housing team, I’m focused on combining care with structure — helping to create a workplace (and service) that’s professional, welcoming, and full of heart.

When I’m not at work, you’ll probably find me on the golf course, baking something ambitious, or out with our rescue dogs — because life’s too short not to mix hard work with a bit of joy.

SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT WORKER

Meet Amy – Lived it. Learned it. Leads with it.

Contact Amy:

Email: amy@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Amy on 07787 520 913

I bring both professional experience and personal understanding to my work with First People Housing. Having once faced homelessness myself, I know how vital it is to be seen, heard, and supported — and that’s what drives me every single day.

With over four years of frontline experience, I’ve helped individuals transition from street homelessness into safe, stable accommodation. I’ve worked across outreach, safeguarding, and case management, supporting people to rebuild confidence and independence through a truly person-centred approach.

Before joining First People, I worked as a Senior Homeless Navigator with Resolve, leading on assessments, risk management, and collaborative care planning. I’ve also spent years in dementia care, gaining a deep appreciation for patience, dignity, and empathy — values I carry into every part of my work today.

For me, it’s simple: everyone deserves a safe place to call home and someone in their corner while they find it.

SUPPORT & DEVELOPMENT WORKER

Meet Mark: Turning hard roads into new routes forward.

Yes we have Three Marks- Who would have thought?

Contact Mark

Email: mark.b@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Mark on 07342 800 073

Mark Brown is a Support & Development Worker at First People Housing, bringing with him a wealth of frontline experience working with young offenders, gang-involved individuals, those affected by serious crime, and families navigating complex challenges. He doesn’t just understand the issues on paper, he’s spent years in the thick of them, walking alongside people when life has been anything but straightforward.

At FPH, Mark focuses on helping individuals turn difficult chapters into something more hopeful and constructive. His approach is practical, honest, and rooted in genuine belief that change is always possible when the right support meets the right moment. He has a natural ability to connect with people, building trust where it’s often been broken and helping others find a steadier path forward.

Mark is deeply passionate about people and progress. He brings energy, resilience, and a calm, steady presence to his work, whether he’s supporting someone through a crisis or helping them take those small but powerful steps towards independence.

Outside of work, Mark’s curiosity doesn’t switch off. He enjoys creative outlets like script writing and video editing, where storytelling takes centre stage. He also spends time on his allotment, growing his own produce, which is both a grounding escape and a reminder that with patience and care, things grow. Alongside this, he has a keen interest in OSINT and cyber security, exploring the digital world with the same curiosity and determination he brings to his role.

In short, Mark brings a rare blend of real-world experience, creativity, and commitment to helping people move forward, one step at a time.

SUPPORT & DEVELOPMENT WORKER

Meet Kim: I’m passionate about helping people grow and heal, using clear boundaries and holistic tools to create safe, meaningful change.

Contact Kim:

Email: kim@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text on 07720 634 697

I’m deeply passionate about walking alongside people as they grow, heal and reconnect to their most authentic selves. My foundation in a Deputy Manager role within mental-health supported living has taught me this: caring for someone means seeing the full person — mind, body and spirit — rather than simply ticking boxes.

Boundaries aren’t just rules; they’re the scaffolding that allows genuine transformation to take root. I build safe, respectful spaces where change can happen — gently, meaningfully and sustainably. Alongside traditional care, I draw on holistic practices such as breathwork, meditation and talking circles — tools that invite presence, awareness and balance.

When I’m not championing change, I’m likely wandering European streets on a spontaneous day-trip, soaking in architecture, culture and adventure. Those moments of wonder aren’t simply “leisure” — they’re ongoing training for curiosity, empathy and the connectedness I bring into my work.

SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT WORKER

Meet Cheyanne:

Contact Cheyanne:

Email: Cheyanne@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Cheyanne on 07765 856668

Support and Development Worker

Meet Tallulah:

Tallulah joined First People Housing in January as a Support and Development Worker, supporting service users to build stability, confidence, and independence. She works closely with colleagues to help individuals maintain their tenancies, access support, and take positive steps forward in their lives.

She brings experience supporting people with complex needs and those navigating significant life challenges. Her approach is compassionate, practical, and focused on helping individuals create sustainable, positive change.

Alongside her role, Tallulah is currently studying Forensic Psychology with The Open University, balancing full-time work with ongoing academic development to strengthen her professional knowledge and practice.

Outside of work, Tallulah enjoys spending time outdoors, including walking, hiking, camping, and family activities with her three children.

Contact Tallulah:

Email: tallulah@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Tallulah on 07584 848081

Support and Development Worker

Meet Kelly: Grounded, resilient, active, compassionate, dependable.

Contact Kelly:

Email:Kelly@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Kelly on 07586 916756

Kelly brings a wide range of life and work experience to First People Housing, shaped by a career that’s taken her from the British Army to roles across housing, care, administration and customer service.

Early in her career, Kelly worked within a local authority Housing Benefit team, supporting people with applications and navigating complex systems. Alongside this, she has provided personal care to elderly and vulnerable people in their own homes, worked in care home administration, and even spent time delivering post for Royal Mail. Each role has strengthened her understanding of people’s lives and the importance of practical, compassionate support.

Kelly also holds qualifications in accounting and has experience working in finance roles, adding a strong organisational and detail-focused skillset to her work.

Looking for a role where she could bring all of this together, Kelly joined First People Housing to make full use of both her professional experience and her natural ability to connect with people.

Outside of work, Kelly is rarely still. She is part of a local running club and has completed a half marathon, as well as taking on endurance challenges including a half marathon trek along the Gower Peninsula and a 90-mile walk along Hadrian’s Wall from Newcastle to Carlisle. She also enjoys swimming and holds qualifications as a swimming teaching assistant and a personal trainer.

Kelly has three adult children, two daughters and a son, all of whom share a passion for music. Her youngest son is currently at university studying performing music and plays in a local punk band.

PEER SUPPORT WORKER

Meet Jordan: Always ready with a warm cup of tea and a listening ear.

Contact Jordan

Email: jordan@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Jordan on 07552 368 960

I’m passionate about helping people create positive change in their lives. My background working within the criminal justice system gave me experience supporting individuals who’ve faced some of life’s toughest challenges—homelessness, time in custody, and struggles with substance or alcohol misuse.

I believe everyone deserves a fresh start, and I’m here to make that possible. Whether it’s offering practical advice or simply being someone to talk to, I value every opportunity to support someone on their journey toward independence.

What drives me is knowing that, through First People Housing, I can help individuals not only secure a home but also maintain a tenancy and build the confidence to live independently. Every success story, no matter how small, reminds me why this work matters. Making a difference in someone’s life—even in the smallest way—fills me with hope, positivity, and joy.

MAINTENANCE MANAGER

Meet Billy — the calm, capable presence behind the scenes who makes sure First People homes are more than just buildings with doors.

Contact Billy:

Email: billy@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Billy on 07502 174 421

As Maintenance Manager at First People Housing CIC, Billy is responsible for keeping our properties running smoothly, safely, and with dignity intact. From the small fixes that quietly matter to the bigger jobs that really test patience and problem-solving, Billy approaches every task with care, pride, and an eye for doing things properly — not quickly, not cheaply, but right.

What sets Billy apart is that he understands something fundamental: a well-maintained home isn’t a luxury — it’s a foundation. When someone is rebuilding their life, the last thing they need is a broken boiler, a dodgy lock, or a space that doesn’t feel respected. Billy gets that. His work supports stability, confidence, and the sense that someone cares enough to get the details right.

Reliable, practical, and refreshingly unflappable, Billy is the person people trust when things go wrong — and the reason many things don’t. He brings consistency, skill, and quiet commitment to a role that underpins everything we do.

Billy will be sharing more about his journey and what brought him to First People in the near future, and when he does, it’ll be worth the read. For now, know this: if it’s working, safe, and solid — Billy’s probably had a hand in it.

Anti Stigma Network

International Society of Substance Use Professionals

Addiction Professionals

National Council of Voluntary Organisations

College of Lived Experience Recovery Organisations

British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy

British Psychological Society

Respect

Welwyn Hatfield Community and Voluntary Services

Meet Gustav: Small van. Big responsibility; he is compact, responsible, carries the plan - he is a little shy so we soon as we can we will get picture up

Before he found us, Gustav worked logistics.

Early mornings. Industrial estates. Clipboards that smelled faintly of instant coffee. He learned quickly that being small didn’t mean being unimportant. In fact, it usually meant the opposite.

He’s moved archive boxes no one wanted to admit still existed. Carried equipment that absolutely had to arrive before the person who ordered it. He’s been underestimated his whole life and quietly built a personality around proving people wrong.

By the time Gustav joined us, he was ready for work that mattered. He still likes things in the right order. He just prefers them to lead somewhere.

Gustav is our 2024 Vauxhall combo prime 2300 L 1h199 in White and belong to Billy our Maintenance Manager.

Meet Arthur — Steady, reliable, always turns up. Does the miles. Doesn’t complain.

Arthur has lived a full life already. 

He’s done the school runs. The weekend trips that took longer than planned. The long drives where nothing much happened except a good conversation and a lot of thinking.

Arthur knows patience. He’s carried tired people, hopeful people, people figuring things out on the way. He’s learned that progress doesn’t always look impressive. Sometimes it just looks like showing up again tomorrow.

When Arthur came to us, he didn’t need reinvention. He just needed somewhere that valued steadiness

Arthur is 2018 T Roc  SE Tsi 113 Se 2wd in White and belong to one of our Directors Mark Davies

Support and Development Worker

Meet Mark: Grounded, insightful, creative, driven, practical.

Contact Mark:

Email: mark.b@firstpeople.org.uk

Mobile: Call/WhatsApp/Text Mark on 07342 800 073

Mark brings a wealth of real-world experience to First People Housing, with a strong focus on supporting people to make meaningful and lasting change.

He has worked with young offenders, individuals involved in gangs and serious crime, and alongside families navigating complex challenges. Through this, Mark has developed a grounded and practical approach, understanding that progress comes from consistent support, trust, and the right opportunities at the right time.

Mark is passionate about people and believes in the potential for change, no matter someone’s starting point.

Outside of work, Mark channels his creativity into script writing and video editing, while also enjoying time on his allotment growing his own produce. He has a keen interest in OSINT and cyber security, reflecting his curiosity and analytical way of thinking.