Meet The Trustee Team

Our Trustees answer some questions:

How much time do you commit?

A couple of hours per meeting, a couple of days per year for away days/training. Plus time to complete any requirements that arise from meetings.

What do you get out of being a Trustee?

I get a sense of pride in being part of such a fantastic organisation which really helps people!

Why did you become a Trustee?

I joined in the early 80’s. I was fairly new to Hastings and had recently been elected as a Borough Councillor. The economy was in a dire state with very high unemployment, and I was idealistic and full of hope for a better future. I became aware of this new group which combined campaigning with practical assistance and advice to clients, I had no doubts about joining – and have never regretted it!

What’s involved in being on the board?

“The benefit system feels like a closed environment, a big impenetrable wall designed to stop people getting the help they need. HARC helps you negotiate that and finds a way to get you what you really need and are entitled to.”

"The system is punitive and unnecessarily cruel to people. The media exacerbates the way people are seen for claiming benefits. HARC are humane, sensitive and I’m sure are responsible for saving people’s lives. I was one of those people."

"Accessing the benefits system has improved my mental health overall. Truly every connection I’ve had with HARC has been excellent."

"HARC had an open mind and helped me get benefits when I was suicidal."

"The support I have received over the years from HARC with benefit advice and forms has been second to none. The Advisors make you feel at ease, and they are comfortable to talk to. I wasn’t getting what I should, and I didn’t realise. Teresa went through everything and made sure I received the support I needed. Their help has taken the weight off my shoulders, and I cannot express how much less stressed I feel."

Cordelia Woollard

Michael Gratton

Stephen Lewis, CEng

Andrew Burnett

Francis Mapstone

Rachael Roser

Shelley Feldman

Our Trustees answer some questions:

What’s involved in being on the board?