Meet the team

Explore our “Meet the Team” page and get to know the wonderful members of our community care team.

They bring expertise, dedication, and a commitment to exceptional care, ensuring our service users receive the best support. Discover their unique stories and the heart they bring to Newcross Healthcare.

Senior Management

Claire Reader – Chief Operating Officer of Community Care

I am honoured to serve as the Chief Operating Officer for Community Care, a role I deeply cherish and take immense pride in.

Throughout my career, I have been privileged to work in diverse healthcare environments, dedicated to the well-being of individuals and communities. My journey began with 8 years of service in the NHS, where I was a Director in specialised inpatient and community services. Subsequently, I spent nearly 11 years at Priory, where I held the position of Managing Director, responsible for a substantial portion of the country, including 15 psychiatric inpatient hospitals.

My unwavering passion lies in the realm of mental health and well-being, both for our clients and our dedicated colleagues. I firmly believe that the foundation of success in this field lies in teamwork and upholding core values. Witnessing a team unite for the betterment of those we serve, driven by integrity and guided by a strong moral compass, is a deeply rewarding experience.

Outside of my professional life, I am devoted to spending quality time with my family, particularly my two young daughters, I’m a frequent winner of kerplunk and quite good at barbie voices! Additionally, I have a keen interest in the Cooking and hosting events and enjoy preparing meals for friends and family.

I am committed to the mission of Community Care and look forward to contributing to the continued success of our organisation.

Suzanne Barnard – Director of Community Care

As a Registered Mental Health Nurse by background I have a real passion for ensuring safe, effective, client focused evidence based care.

I qualified in 2006 and worked in various clinical settings including specialist DBT services and CAMHS. I then secured a role within ABI services and found my passion in this clinical area supporting clients with progressive neurological conditions, EOL care, ABI admissions and challenging behaviour for both adults and adolescents and supported the implementation of the neurobehavioural approach.

I soon moved from clinical based roles into more operational focused roles and management and worked as a Director of Clinical Services for some time before moving into Hospital Director roles where I remained until I commenced my role with Newcross Healthcare. I love coaching and supporting my team and watching them grow and succeed. I also have a particular interest in Safeguarding and Investigations which forms a key part of my roles.

Outside of my professional life I love to spend time with my friends and family, especially my two children and our dogs. I really enjoy completing charity runs and treks and raising money for charities close to my heart.

I am dedicated to my role and team and have an unwavering commitment to the clients in our care and the continued development of the service.

Becky Foster – National Community Care Centre Manager

I started in care at the age of 18 and never looked back, with over 14 years experience.

I have worked in various positions such as Registered Manager and Regional Operations Manager which have given me a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the challenges in the care sector. I joined Newcross back in May 2022 and have loved being able to put this knowledge to good use and really break down barriers in staffing. I aim to continue to grow and develop our Community Care services so we can support more individuals who need us whilst maintaining quality and consistency in staffing.

Outside of work I am a proud mum to my 2 children in our sunny (sometimes) home in the English Riveria! Whilst my teenage son mostly uses me as a taxi and a football mum, my daughter loves exploring the outdoors so that keeps me busy!

I love my role and I am passionate about providing the best care to our clients and the best support to our staff and I am excited for the future and the ongoing development of Community Care.

Vanessa Van Meensel – Senior Clinical Lead Nurse

Having achieved my nurse qualification in 2002, I am a dual registered nurse (paediatric and adult) with over 20 years of experience in nursing.

Subsequently I relocated to England where I discovered my passion for working with children and young adults with complex care needs whilst working at a children’s hospice in North Devon.

Joining Newcross in 2016, I initially worked as a Paediatric Clinical Lead Nurse, overseeing care packages for children with complex care needs. As my career progressed, I transitioned into a managerial position, where I currently lead a team of Clinical Lead Nurses, a role I very much enjoy.

Our Clinical Lead Nurse team comprises a group of highly skilled paediatric, adult, learning disability and mental health nurses. This diversity ensures that we can provide dedicated support to individuals with a wide range of needs.

Outside of my working hours, I take pleasure in spending quality time with my family, going on walks with my dog and indulging in my creative side through baking and cake decorating.

Regional Managers

Scotland – Kay Tevlin-Smy

I have over 24 years experience working in Health and Social Care. Have held various roles including Locality manager and Registered manager managing supported living and mental health services.

I am passionate about delivering high quality support to all individuals ensuring we tailor our services to meet their needs. I enjoy spending time with my family, walking the dogs on the beach. I am an avid fan of rugby especially the Irish rugby team.

North – Sara Alderson

My journey in the realm of care began at the tender age of 16, and it’s been an enriching adventure ever since. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working across a wide spectrum of health and social care settings.

What sets my journey apart is my multifaceted perspective; I’ve played the roles of a client, caregiver, and manager, providing me with a comprehensive understanding of the industry.

I’m deeply committed to delivering top-tier care with a warm and compassionate touch. Making a positive impact on the lives of those under my care is both a vocation and a calling. Beyond my professional pursuits, I’m an avid Formula 1 enthusiast, finding sheer delight in the exhilaration of the races.

Midlands & East – Jennifer Fynn

Over 23 years of experience working within the care sector with 17 years of that being managerial. Various roles have included supporting people with mental health needs, Learning Disabilities, Autism and Elderly and Dementia.

I am very passionate about my work and take pride in ensuring that the people I support receive the highest quality of care

Personally – I am a mum to 3 wonderful children who keep me busy during my non-working hours. I love to travel and visit new places. I love animals, especially dogs – of which I can’t walk past one without stopping to give them a fuss!

Wales – Kelly Tatum

My journey began as a domiciliary carer, and over the 15 years in health and social care, I’ve passionately worked my way up into managerial roles.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working in a diverse range of care settings, including independent living, care homes, live-in care, and complex care. These experiences have enriched my knowledge and provided me with a deep understanding of the intricacies and challenges within health and social care.

My commitment to improving the quality of life for those in need has been a driving force throughout my career. I am dedicated to using my expertise and the valuable insights I’ve gained to contribute positively to the field of health and social care, making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and their families.

In my spare time I enjoy visiting new places, going on long walks in the countryside and completing physical challenges such as walking up Ben Nevis and taking part in Tough Mudder.

South – Gemma Lewis

I began working within health and social care 19 years ago as a domiciliary carer, I have always been passionate about community based care, so decided to climb the ladder.

Prior to moving to Newcross I was a senior registered manager for 9 years at home care agency which primarily supported adults with learning disabilities and the elderly. I moved to Newcross to gain further experience and gain more clinical knowledge and understanding to better support my professional and personal goals and help individuals get the care and support they require safely and more effectively. I currently have a level 5 in health and social care management and have just started a degree alongside my work in health and care, I am excited to be completing this as feel the knowldge and skills I will learn will be beneficial to Newcross and the clients we support. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family , and 2 French bulldogs. I also read a lot and trail running wherever possible.

lsle of Wight – Emma Gerring

I have over 20 years of experience within the care Sector with various roles including Team Leader, Care Associate, Deputy Manager, Service Manager and Registered Manager.

I joined Newcross in 2021 and have not looked back since. I am passionate about delivering the highest quality care to each and every person who requires our support.

In my personal life I love spending time with my family including my lovely Labrador Penny and going on holidays.

South West – Stacey Robb

With over a decade of dedicated experience in Health and Social Care, my journey has been a remarkable one, filled with growth, leadership, and a passion for making a positive impact in people’s lives.

My career ignited as a domiciliary carer, where I discovered my deep-seated commitment to providing exceptional care. Within just six months, my dedication and drive propelled me into the role of Team Leader, where I led and inspired a team to deliver compassionate care to those in need.

In 2016, I embarked on an exciting new chapter with Newcross, taking on the role of Coordinator for Establishment. This marked the beginning of a series of diverse and challenging roles within the organization. Over the years, I’ve held positions ranging from Team Leader to Branch Manager, each role equipping me with invaluable skills and insights into the healthcare industry.

Currently, as a Regional Manager, I take pride in overseeing and optimizing healthcare operations, ensuring that our commitment to excellence remains unwavering. My journey has not only been a professional one but a personal one as well.

Beyond the workplace, I cherish a bustling home life with my son and four stepchildren, adding a dose of delightful chaos to my days. Weekends are reserved for our love of camper van adventures, exploring the hidden gems of our surroundings, and creating lasting memories as a family.

In my downtime, I find joy in pursuing my hobbies, which include paddle boarding, boxing, and cross-fit. Recently, I achieved a significant milestone by conquering Snowdon, fueling my ambition to complete more exhilarating mountain treks in the very near future.

I am excited about the path ahead, driven by a passion for making a difference and a love for life’s diverse experiences.

Service Managers

Jessica Clifford

I’ve been involved in the field of health and social care since 2013. Before joining Newcross, my career began as a health care assistant with a primary focus on elderly and palliative care.

Over time, I advanced in this role, progressing to the position of senior HCA and eventually becoming a team leader. Later on, I took on the role of compliance manager, where my main responsibility was ensuring that the care being delivered complied with CQC regulations.

My journey at Newcross started as a care coordinator, and I later transitioned to the role of a care associate. In this role, I managed clients’ care packages and successfully completed my Level 5 assistant practitioner diploma.

Since September 2022, I’ve been serving as a service manager at Newcross. My passion lies in ensuring that our clients receive exceptional care and that our healthcare staff have the necessary support, training, and guidance to provide this level of service. Beyond my professional life, I have a strong passion for travel and have spent several years exploring fascinating parts of the world.

Jenna Olley

Hello, I’m Jenna, the Service Manager for Newcross in the Midlands and East Region. I’ve been with Newcross for almost five years, driven by our shared values and the opportunity to shift my career from residential to community work.

I couldn’t be more thrilled about the journey I’ve undertaken. My healthcare journey began as a 17-year-old apprentice care worker, and I’ve since held various roles, including Team Leader, Community Field Team Leader, and Care Associate, culminating in my current role. Along the way, I’ve earned NVQs and more recently I’m especially proud to have completed the Assistant Practitioner Level 5 with Newcross, receiving the Community Care Team Member Award in 2022 and the Rising Star Award in 2023.

I’m passionate about problem-solving and find joy in learning every day, working alongside a talented and dedicated team. What I love most about my role is its daily diversity and the opportunity to provide high-quality care to our community, aligned with Newcross’ values. I’m motivated by ensuring every individual receives the care they deserve, helping them to achieve their goals.

Outside of work, I’m an avid animal lover with two dogs and prioritize self-care through morning gym sessions to stay focused and proactive for the day ahead.

With my experience and dedication, I’m honored to contribute to Newcross’s mission of exceptional care, one client at a time.

Business Development Team

Claudia Joyce – Head of Business Development

I have been with the business for 4 years, joining as a Business Development Manager for the South region. I have worked in Health and Social Care for over 20 years.

I started my career as an Independent Advocate (IMCA, DoLS, IMHA and Care Act) supporting adults and children with learning disabilities, autism and mental health. I am particularly passionate about preventing hospital admissions to mental health settings by enabling people to live in their own homes in the community. The impact of a great care team has on someone’s life is incredible – it’s the difference between someone existing and someone living their best life! That’s why I’m so proud to be working with the Community Care team at Newcross to deliver the best quality care to people in their own homes. When I’m not working you can find me baking cakes, climbing a mountain, in a spin class or at the beach with a cocktail!

Susan McLaughlin – Business Development Executive

I joined the Business Development Team for Community Care in August 2023. I will be covering the North of England and Scotland. I have worked in care for 42yrs, starting as a Mental Health Nurse.

As part of a supported employment initiative, I supported people with mental health conditions, learning disabilities and chronic illness gain and sustain employment for about 10 yrs. I have worked in Care Homes, Domiciliary Care and Live in Care before becoming a Business Development Manager. I have enjoyed working in care all these years and cannot think of a more rewarding or fun job to have had. I have worked with some great people and include the staff at Newcross amongst them. When I’m not at work I like to spend time at the beach with my dog Scooby and my husband.

Kelly Smith – Business Development Executive

I have been a part of the business development team here at Newcross since April 2023. I cover the South, the Midlands and Wales.

I have been in the sales industry for 16 years and have worked within a range of industries. For the last 3 years I worked for a large care provider in the care home sector. I am passionate about my job with the forefront being on delivering fantastic care so people can stay in the community with our support. I thrive on learning new things and Newcross is the place to be for its advancement in systems, technology, training and staff. I am sure we can all do great things in healthcare together. In my spare time I like to spend time with my daughter and family and love being on a summer holiday in the sunshine, as this is my favourite place to relax.