Candidate statements P - Z
In this section you will find the candidate statements named P - Z. Click the name to read each statement:
Laurie PagePhilip ParkAllison PottsTheodore PrinceFern PulhamPeter RadfordWilliam RamsdenMatthew RandallJoshua RiceSally RiceMalcolm RumleyRhona SavinLawrence SchoebOmer SenCarol ShadboltRaymond ShamashTodd SharvellDavid ShieldVictoria SkinnerAnthony SmithDavid StantonPaul StewartHellen Stirling-BakerPatrick StreeterRobin StrettonBen SumnerJennifer SumptionRay SymesBill TateJabbar TajJennifer ThomasMatt ThompsonKevin TierneyJulian Tope WITHDRAWNHelen TourleGuy TrehaneKrystian TrojnackiKaty VoiseyGill WebberJohn WhiteBen WilcoxJon WildMichael WilesEvan WilliamsDaniel WinfieldChris WoodPaul WoodNeil Wyatt
Todd SharvellDavid ShieldVictoria SkinnerAnthony SmithDavid StantonPaul StewartHellen Stirling-BakerPatrick StreeterRobin StrettonBen SumnerJennifer SumptionRay SymesBill TateJabbar TajJennifer ThomasMatt Thompson
Kevin TierneyJulian Tope WITHDRAWNHelen TourleGuy TrehaneKrystian TrojnackiKaty VoiseyGill WebberJohn WhiteBen WilcoxJon WildMichael WilesEvan WilliamsDaniel WinfieldChris WoodPaul WoodNeil Wyatt
View candidates A - F
View candidates G - O
These statements represent the views of the candidates - they do not necessarily represent the views of the National Trust.
I have been a long-standing member of the National Trust and commend the work that they do in preserving historic buildings of interest and areas of beautiful countryside and coast. I have avid interest in both history (qualified history teacher) and the countryside (ex-Public Rights of Way Officer and author of several walking publications). I am a volunteer steward at Winchester Cathedral.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?Very much admire the concept of preservation of historical British buildings and the maintenance of areas of natural beauty. And I would like to be part of helping out with the future and the challenges ahead.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?My knowledge and skills of the countryside from my experience as a Map and Public Rights of Way Officer. My experience as a teacher (and lover) of history and historic buildings. My organisational skills as a teacher (previously) and now Group Leader for Warsash U3A community group.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Attracting more members to the Trust (especially focusing on activities for younger members). Protest against pollution and sewage deposited into rivers and streams on Trust properties. Create more public rights of way across Trust properties (using section 25 of the Highways Act).
Q: Anything else?I am now fully retired and have much more free time to dedicate myself to such a role as this.
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I first experienced the joys of the countryside through adventure activities. These sports presented opportunities for shared challenge, personal growth, fun and access to the beauty of the outdoors. They have remained a motivating force in a career spent predominantly in the countryside. As my career developed, I grew to appreciate the importance and value of landscape, archaeology, forestry, agriculture, conservation, vernacular buildings, geology and history. I continue to volunteer and always looking for ways to offer my skills and experience.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I like the fact that it is not a single interest organisation. It has to balance sometimes conflicting interests; these apparent conflicts keep it honest.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Hands-on experience of the challenges of managing large tracts of countryside. Team working. Working with a wide range of statutory and non-statutory interests and conflicts of interests.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Continue the focus on young people, re-engage with its founding cause as a green lung for the inner cities, climate action, education, and strive to be seen as less a pillar of the community more a cause to fight for!
Q: Anything else?The National Trust is an absolutely extraordinary success story. It played a huge part in transforming my career and my ambitions. I would love to put a bit back!
A life member of the National Trust, passionate about nature recovery and tackling unequal access to nature, I wish to join the Council. Leading Natural England’s Thames Solent Area, I work to restore nature for people across six counties and London. I chair the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Local Nature Partnership, co-chair the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management’s Professional Standards Committee, and previously worked in local government and the charitable sector, including chairing a local children’s charity. I live in Wiltshire with my family and spend time exploring the outdoors and playing the piano (badly).
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I believe restoring and sharing our natural and cultural heritage with communities holds significant knowledge, health and wellbeing benefits that are key to a more sustainable future, and I’d like to help the Trust secure these benefits.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Through my work and experience, I have considerable knowledge of nature recovery and connecting people with nature, alongside policy, advocacy, communication and leadership skills which I would like to deploy to help realise the Trust’s ambition.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?A sustainable future: for the Trust and the important sites it stewards for the nation, but also as an exemplar in responding to the climate and biodiversity crises, and demonstrating how doing so has wider social, environmental and economic benefits.
Q: Anything else?Both my environmental focus and my young family compel me to continue to work towards a sustainable future which must respond to the climate and biodiversity crises – I would bring my hope, passion and dedication to the Council.
As a custodian of a family farm and estate, I hold true to traditional values of diverse land management and the preservation of historically important buildings. As a member of the National Trust over recent years, I understand not only the challenges surrounding preservation, but also in providing full support to the vast range of volunteers, staff, members of the Trust, and members of the wider communities – over hundreds of sites. I feel strongly about providing continued and better support to everyone, in order for each individual to feel valued.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The vast variety of properties and land, together with open access to all, is a glorious part of the Trust’s vision – ensuring communities can be a part of the work and benefit from the results.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Whilst my background is involved heavily within the farming and countryside sectors, I have immense passion for ensuring visitor experiences are incredible – this massively aids in the success of projects, and subsequently enjoyment and accessibility for everyone.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Maintaining fair investments for each property, in order to properly protect conservation. Sharing property’s in-depth history – and making this information accessible for everyone. Better training for staff and volunteers – providing them with better knowledge and an opportunity to share theirs.
Q: Anything else?I fully understand the vast challenges surrounding the protection of an increasing number of properties; and the subsequent challenge of financially supporting an increasing number of passionate and knowledgeable staff and volunteers; this area needs to focus to excel.
As an Insight Professional, I have a wealth of experience helping clients execute their strategies and I would like to leverage these skills and apply them to supporting an organisation that I am personally passionate about, having been a National Trust member for 12 years. I enjoy fundraising for charity – in July 2023 I hiked Snowdon overnight for CALM – and would love the opportunity to support the Trust on an ongoing basis, while meeting great people and learning along the way.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?It’s hard as an individual to have a tangible, positive impact on the environment but the Trust makes a real, visible difference and I want to be part of that.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?As a researcher, I have to consider who I’m including in my sample, and who that means I’m excluding, and that has made me incredibly in-tune with what it means to design inclusive projects.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?While membership numbers have remained stable in recent years, number of visits are still down significantly versus pre-pandemic levels. The Trust should focus on attracting and engaging young members of the public to build life-long advocacy and support.
Q: Anything else?As a consultant, I seek to truly understand situations, opinions and behaviour. It’s in my nature to be inquisitive and not assume we already know the answer. It’s this kind of thinking I can bring to the Trust’s Council.
I am a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers with wide-ranging experience and a desire to make the world a better place. I believe my practical, project delivery and risk/stakeholder management skills would help the National Trust. Alongside my engineering background, I am engaged in a long-time endeavour to optimise societal benefits from public-facing work. I have led a number of national initiatives in this area with a current focus of tackling deprivation and inequality. I think this experience would be helpful to the Council and the Trust.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I care deeply about the fabric, history and future of our country. The access and care the Trust provides to seminal places and their stories is vital. The Trust exemplifies the best of Britain and I wish to support it.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I am passionate about tackling deprivation, inequality and exclusion. I am active in these areas professionally and hope to bring that skill, knowledge and some innovative thinking and practice in directly to help the Trust achieve its mission.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?I believe intelligence-led initiatives around tackling deprivation, inequality and exclusion should be the Trust’s 2025–35 focus. Problems tend to be ‘place-based’ and a strategy taking advantage of the Trust’s massive footprint/reach with efforts tailored to place’s needs could, I believe, be transformational.
Q: Anything else?I trust the Trust! However, many will have heard recent detractors some focusing on, say, the equality and exclusion debate. I would be a vigorous, vociferous, practical and reasoned advocate for what the Trust is trying to achieve.
I’ve been a doctor for nearly 40 years, a consultant paediatric radiologist in Leeds for nearly 30 years and have undertaken several senior leadership roles. I’ve been Medical Director, Education and Training, and later Vice-President of the Royal College of Radiologists, which is both a membership organisation and a charity. I’ve been a National Trust life member for 35 years and am a keen hillwalker, having completed the Munros, Corbetts and Grahams. Accessing our countryside is a very important issue and I support improving access and ensuring we’re welcoming to all.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I’d like to support and work with the Trust in building a sustainable future, welcoming people to its sites and countryside, informing and engaging with them, and preserving the sites for tomorrow whilst ensuring that they are enjoyed today.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?NHS and Royal College of Radiologists’ leadership roles have given me a deep understanding of the issues faced by large organisations, charities and membership bodies and I’ve important transferable skills, particularly in issues of governance and equality, diversity and inclusion.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?I would like to build on the current strategy by making the Trust’s countryside and sites accessible and welcoming to all, particularly young people and under-represented groups, whilst respecting the needs of those who live in these areas.
Q: Anything else?I’m interested in public transportation (I support improving sustainable access to Trust sites) and am undertaking a PhD with the National Railway Museum including public engagement, ensuring I understand the need to present information in an open and accessible way.
I have been a member of the National Trust for most of my adult life. I grew up in Corfe Castle, which is an ever-present symbol of our heritage. I worked in the local underground clay mines, where I experienced at first hand the industrial story that underpins this area. This needs to be preserved so that the lessons learnt, and stories told are passed to the next generation. My varied experience has given me an insight into the need to manage our resources in a practical and sustainable way.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?Our industrial heritage is a key part of our nation’s story, which needs to be preserved and cherished. The Trust has taken this on board, and I would like to assist by providing a slightly different perspective.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have a strong background in technical and financial evaluation of projects, with the managerial skills to deliver solutions on budget and on time.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Ensuring that the nation’s heritage is preserved for all to see and can be accessed in a sustainable way that meets the objectives of carbon reduction. It needs to be open to innovative solutions and move with the times.
Q: Anything else?The experience gained in starting up and running an independent mining consultancy has helped me develop the skills to understand and, where possible, accommodate the needs of the stakeholders.
I joined the National Trust as a Young Member five years ago. I am a final year PhD candidate and Visiting Lecturer in History with over 10 years’ experience volunteering and working in the heritage sector at brilliant institutions like the Royal Albert Hall and Watts Gallery. I would like to see the Trust protected for future generations to enjoy. Equally, I want its fabulous sites to be available and welcoming to the widest possible audience. That means continuing to make the Trust a space that is accessible for everyone.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The motto. As someone under 30, who grew up on a council estate, I would love to see diverse representation throughout the organisation. The Trust’s synthesis of architecture, landscapes and history really should be ‘for everyone, for ever’.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have experience communicating history to wide audiences, something the Trust has been excellent at in recent years despite opposition, including lecturing to undergraduates, as well as writing and researching episodes for BBC Radio 4’s You’re Dead to Me.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Attracting the broadest possible audience. The sustainable preservation of the Trust’s natural landscapes with a recognition of the challenges presented by climate change. Continuing the excellent work of presenting rigorous, and sometimes difficult, histories of the Trust’s properties.
Q: Anything else?I would bring passionate enthusiasm to the role; I look forward to tackling the environmental, social and cultural challenges that are ahead. As Europe’s biggest conservation charity, the Trust is in a unique position to shape a representative cultural future.
From rolling down hills in gardens as a tot to now taking my own godchildren, the National Trust has always been a part of my life. Now I am at a point where I want to give back and be part of ensuring its sustainable future. Being a volunteer at The Watercress Line, a heritage charity railway, gives me great insight into the challenges charities face. In work, my board level experience in operations and entrepreneurial spirit ensure a head for business that can make a great contribution to the Trust.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I feel an affinity with the Trust’s values to protect natural and historic places. A lot of what can inspire young (and old alike) can be found through the Trust’s art, history, nature and landscapes and that needs protecting.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have learned through running my own businesses that making a 1% difference can make ALL the difference and I can bring this operational efficiency approach. My recent role in a sustainability consultancy can also lend insight.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Ensuring the correct response to climate change, working towards the Trust’s aim to be net zero by 2030 and ensuring sustainability of all within its care in terms of diverse (and continued!) visitor access and funding as well as environmentally.
Q: Anything else?Only my complete passion and love for an institution that should always remain a stalwart guardian of our great history, landscape and learning that I wish to see benefit the generations to come.
My wife Denise and I have been members of the National Trust for 10 years. We both have a keen interest in social history. When looking around these properties what interests me is the history and stories that have taken place around the house or the items and artefacts inside the properties perhaps, I could become part of that story. My voluntary experience is parent governor at a primary school and Liaison Officer for the Institute of Carpenters. In my role as a tutor, I have delivered sessions on heritage skills.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust are caretakers of Historical properties and tell the stories of people and places over time and how we have developed as a society.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have 40 years’ experience working on properties old and new and also restoration of antique and period furniture, I have worked within education for 20 years with diverse groups developing students’ carpentry and joinery skills.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?To continue to care for as many buildings as possible but to also look forward as to how we can start to work on a sustainable future for these properties.
Q: Anything else?I have always thought of myself as being able to balance other people’s views and perspectives along with my own views and beliefs to work towards a common goal.
I am a passionate advocate for preserving our cultural and natural heritage for current and future generations. My National Trust membership has become particularly important to me since moving to Northern Ireland. Without the same rights of access as elsewhere in the UK, the spaces the Trust provides to escape and connect with nature has become essential for my family. With a background in environmental policy, I bring a wealth of experience in fostering meaningful connections between people and nature, and holding government to account on delivering environmental improvement.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?Connecting with nature has positive physical and mental health benefits for everyone. The Trust often provides essential spaces for the UK public to connect with its heritage and enjoy their local environment, preserving it for future generations.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Working across different areas in environment policy, I am skilled in strategic thinking around complex problems and have a wide knowledge of environmental issues, the diversity of perspectives and the challenges in conserving and restoring our landscapes for everyone, for ever.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Working with others to achieve our goals; whether that’s increasing volunteering opportunities, working with other landowners and farmers to deliver landscape environmental improvements or local actors to transform urban green space through the projects like our Future Parks Accelerator programme.
Q: Anything else?Nothing else.
I have a deep-rooted passion for historic conservation and environmental stewardship. I currently lead the European legal team at a technology company in London called Samsara. Prior to joining Samsara, I held similar legal positions at Palantir Technologies, Burberry, and Universal Pictures, after training and qualifying at international law firm Bird & Bird LLP. I understand the importance of providing novel and creative solutions to problems. I’m particularly interested in helping the National Trust better leverage and utilise technology (and data) wherever possible.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I’m inspired by the Trust’s dedication to preserving the UK’s natural and historical treasures. Contributing to its legacy, promoting environmental sustainability, and ensuring access to heritage for all drive my desire to serve on its Council.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?My legal background equips me to help foster collaboration often amongst diverse opinions and polarised stakeholders. I can help mediate conflicts, and help forge consensus, vital for promoting equity and inclusivity.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust should focus on further enhancing accessibility for people from all backgrounds, cultures and ages – making our heritage a shared treasure for everyone (whether British or an international visitor).
Q: Anything else?My candidacy is driven by a deep passion for enhancing accessibility to our national heritage, ensuring it is shared and celebrated by all communities. I am committed to leveraging my skills and experiences to break down barriers and create a more inclusive Trust.
As an experienced IT consultant with a profound love for nature, I aspire to utilise my skills to enhance the National Trust’s conservation efforts. With significant project management experience, I’m equipped to contribute innovatively to the Council’s work. As a long-standing member and volunteer, I understand our shared mission intimately. I’m eager to help augment our precious heritage’s preservation and build a sustainable future.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I’m inspired by the Trust’s commitment to preserve natural and historical sites. Its fusion of conservation, education and community engagement aligns with my values. I seek to contribute more significantly to this vital work through election to the Council.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?As an IT consultant, I offer technological expertise to modernise Trust operations, enhance accessibility, and improve overall efficiency. My project management skills help reinforce collaboration, while my passion for nature heightens awareness. I aim to use my skills to make the Trust’s mission truly ‘for everyone, for ever’.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust’s next decade should focus on a blend of technological advancements for better accessibility and enhanced conservation efforts. Emphasising digital platforms can foster education and engagement. Additionally, addressing climate change’s impact on our heritage sites should take precedence.
Q: Anything else?Beyond my technical skills, my longstanding membership and volunteer experience with the Trust highlight my dedication and deep understanding of the Trust’s mission. I bring a unique perspective, serving as a bridge between modern technology and timeless conservation aims.
For over 40 years I have enjoyed visiting National Trust properties nationwide as a Life Member. I am passionate about conserving our landscape, improving habitats and championing the importance of the natural world in our lives today. As a committee member of my local village hall, I have been active in fundraising, community events, supporting the arts, installing photovoltaic panels, and planting hedges and trees in the surrounding countryside. Joining Council would enable me to contribute to Trust initiatives in these areas.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust is one of the most influential organisations in the preservation of our historical and natural heritage. Council membership would enable me to contribute to the development of new economic models for land use that support nature.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?For many years I have actively participated in various social and environmental projects which have involved teaching youth groups, leading fundraising projects, parish council activities, as well as physical activities such as tree planting.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Focus on the restoration of habitats, soils and water to a good condition, through grant funding by national agencies and employing less invasive methods to achieve these aims.
Q: Anything else?I am passionate about conserving our landscape, particularly on the Cheshire Sandstone Ridge, improving habitats and championing the importance of nature in our lives today.
I wish to represent part of the membership who feel that a woke agenda is dominant, and the purpose of preserving our heritage is being eroded. Quarry Bank, a cotton mill, has an exhibit about slave ship conditions. It seemed that the curators were looking for any excuse to highlight the worst abuses of colonialism at the expense of a story of the birth of worker welfare. Chartwell, Churchill’s home, was the most egregious example. Representing him as a racist was offensive and the core demographic of members, share my views.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?To do my part in preserving the magnificent heritage of buildings and gardens for families to enjoy and as part of our appeal as a tourist destination.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?As a retired medical professional, I am particularly interested in any medical connections in our properties and would seek to be involved in highlighting this aspect.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Climate change will have a huge impact on the maintenance of the gardens of our great houses. A balance must be struck between preservation and future proofing.
Q: Anything else?In my professional life, I worked with disadvantaged, vulnerable and special needs patients.
I am an enthusiast of our wonderful countryside and homes and have been privileged in my work both commercially and operationally to have been closely involved in both. I set up and ran a national programme for a global automotive manufacturer. Based in 12 estates we were privileged to use both their houses and land. At all times it was about care and responsibility. Delivering unique experiences for customers and their friends. My closely related skills and customer understanding can be used to best advantage.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The National Trust is unique. It saves and it gives everyone the opportunity to experience our wonderful houses and their gardens/estates.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have many years’ experiences working with and understanding our estates and their houses. I bring strategic planning and commercial skills in marketing management.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?To present our houses and their gardens/estates to maximise the visitor experience. To attract new members of all ages, from all backgrounds and all visitors to the UK.
Q: Anything else?My wish is to make a contribution by using my professional skills and relevant experiences.
I have recently retired after a career of 45 years in the television industry managing technical operations. I am a lifetime member of the National Trust, particularly interested in architectural heritage and anthropology. Married to a farmer’s daughter, I take a keen interest in rural affairs and enjoy long distance walks such as the South West Coast Path. Having enjoyed the Trust’s properties so much over the years, I would love to give something back.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I am proud of the work the Trust has done as custodian of so much land, buildings, art, furniture and equipment on behalf of its members and visitors and I want to ensure it continues in the best possible way.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I believe I can bring valuable commercial and management experience to the Council especially in relation to the media.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?To continue to widen the membership and to continue to ‘bring to life’ the properties in a way that will engage a diverse audience to Britain’s unique heritage.
My interest in joining the Council stems from a desire to give back, and contribute perspectives and energy to an organisation dear to my family. We love the places of natural beauty and historic interest which the National Trust safeguards, and this mission feels more important than ever to me in today’s fast-changing world, given the pace of climate change and technological advancements. The unique gift of the Trust is to unite us strongly with our past and with nature, and this to me feels critical to safeguard for the future.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I have many happy memories of childhood days out to Trust properties up and down the country. Today, as a step-mum and expectant mum-to-be, I am inspired to contribute myself to the heritage and educational purpose of the Trust.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?As well as a personal passion for the historical built environment, architecture and the beautiful British countryside, I bring governance, finance and leadership skills from my professional career and a strong teamworking ethos.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Building on ‘for everyone, for ever’, I would maintain a strong focus on inclusivity, in its broadest sense; promoting new and inspiring initiatives in the fight against climate change; with a careful focus on budgetary considerations given the challenging macro-economic climate.
Q: Anything else?In closing, it would be an absolute privilege to make a modest personal contribution to the running of the Trust, an inspirational and unique organisation which has played a big part in shaping my own lifetime interests and outlook.
History has always been a passion of mine. Achieving my PhD in 19th-century British history, and then teaching history for many years, have given me knowledge, experience and insight into some of the difficulties in making history accessible, which I feel would enable me to make valuable contributions to the work of the Council. As a longstanding National Trust member, I feel accessibility is key to the Trust’s future. I would like to play a part in ensuring the Trust fulfils its mission, to be for everyone, for ever.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust’s ability to bring history to life for each successive generation is what makes visiting, and revisiting sites so enjoyable, and the opportunity to help shape this work is what inspires me to seek election.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Having taught history I have experienced the difficulties in making history accessible to everyone; whilst knowledge of managing a budget makes me feel that making Trust membership attractive and affordable is key to ensuring that the Trust is for ever.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?I think the focus should be on sustainability, not just for the future of our sites, but the future of the planet; with sustainability at its heart, the Trust could mobilise colleagues and members to fight for a sustainable future.
Q: Anything else?I would like to be a part of the Trust’s future and believe I have the skill set to help the Trust continue to be at the centre of the community at a time when funds are tight for everyone.
As a long-term life member, I am well acquainted with the properties and countryside safeguarded – with exceptional professionalism – by the National Trust. Being actively involved with the World Heritage Convention as ambassador to UNESCO gives me insights relevant to the Trust’s responsibilities for both natural and cultural properties, including World Heritage Sites the Trust manages (from Fountains Abbey to the Lake District). In my roles as Chair of voluntary organisations, notably UNICEF UK, I focused on ensuring financial sustainability and managing the relationship between governance and executive management.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I want to support and be a part of the Trust’s safeguarding of our magnificent landscapes, architecture and heritage – offering access and enjoyment to all – which enhances our wellbeing in a challenging world.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?My work in international development, UNICEF and governance of schools gives me particular insight in engaging young people in diverse cultures to enjoy and understand all the Trust has to offer to help to ensure a future where the Trust reaches all.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust needs a strategy that can engage positively with the significant challenges and opportunities arising from climate change targets, social diversity and artificial intelligence.
Q: Anything else?I can compare the Trust with other arrangements of which I am aware for achieving similar objectives in North America and Europe.
Trained horticulturalist, I worked for the National Trust from 2006–2019 including leading the restoration of Mount Stewart Garden to its place as one of the top gardens in the world. Elected as President of the National Trust Prospect Union branch from 2012–2019. Lifelong activism in civic society and believer in the founding principles of the Trust. Awarded life membership of the Trust in 2019 for services rendered and currently manage the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust in Northern Ireland based at Castle Espie nature reserve on Strangford Lough.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust is a force for good and at the forefront of celebrating our heritage and environment though engaging the nation with it. The Trust represents the epitome of good governance, and this democratic oversight ensures we remain relevant.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I understand the challenges facing the organisation in a changing world through first-hand experience in several roles within the Trust. I am a passionate advocate of our organisation with extensive experience of governance and activism in the wider civic arena.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Inspiring the whole nation to take action, driving the narrative on conservation and heritage in the UK. Maintaining our relevance by adapting to a changing world, leading the way in addressing climate change and addressing the biodiversity crisis.
Q: Anything else?Breadth of experience in horticulture and nature conservation I have worked my way from hands-on gardener to senior leadership positions including within the trade union movement. I will endeavour to provide a voice for all regions and social strata.
I am deeply committed to preserving our heritage and fostering inclusivity within the National Trust. With a background in environmental management and prior board service, I offer diverse perspectives and a passion for sustainable stewardship. As a devoted Trust member, I understand the importance of community engagement and collaboration. I am eager to contribute my skills and dedication to the Council’s vital work, ensuring the Trust continues to thrive for generations to come.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust’s dedication to preserving our nation’s natural and cultural treasures while fostering inclusivity in access and participation motivates me to seek a role on its Council.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?With expertise in environmental management and governance, I aim to support the Trust’s ambition by advocating for sustainability and diversity, ensuring equitable access and representation for all.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?In the next 10 years, the Trust should prioritise enhancing accessibility to its properties, promoting biodiversity conservation, and strengthening community engagement initiatives to ensure its enduring relevance and impact.
Q: Anything else?As a longstanding member of the Trust, I bring a deep commitment to its mission and values. With a background in environmental management and governance, I am prepared to contribute actively to the Council’s important work.
I believe the British country house is a work of art and it should be conserved, explained, set in context but not interfered with. I am an active conservationist and, as trustee and sometime Chairman of the Spitalfields Historic Buildings Trust, I have participated in various campaigns which successfully saved historic buildings from demolition. I served for 13 years as a Councillor in the City and East End of London and I am a Chartered Accountant. I have been a member of the National Trust for over 20 years.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?There are many views on how the Trust should be run and everyone should work together so that all may enjoy this national asset. I am experienced in working with people with different points of view to achieve a common aim.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have had to think creatively to rescue historic buildings with little money. I can contribute my experience to discussions on how to bring conservation projects to a successful conclusion with the involvement of the local community.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Building a reputation as the foremost custodian of historic buildings, works of art, gardens and countryside, and setting high expectations. AGM voting must take place on a visibly even playing field, which means reconsidering the ‘Quick vote’.
Q: Anything else?I have seen many neglected and damaged buildings brought back to life and become much-loved focal points for communities. The Trust need to re-think its plans for Clandon Park and aim high.
Born in London means you are spoilt for fantastic architecture, hence my love of the subject. I have also enjoyed working with stone and dry-stone walling and being half Welsh means slate runs through my veins. I have a woodworking hobby I enjoy whenever I can. I volunteer as a blood biker supporting the local air ambulance and help with the local council forest/common maintenance. Obsessed with books and history whilst also loving new technology and the future. Avid walker and lover of the outside, semi-retired and loving life.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?As an Architectural Designer I have a love for all buildings and their environment and a passion for traditional construction methods and techniques that are sadly being lost. The National Trust helps celebrate the true craftsman in all its forms.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Having designed many hospitals and care homes I am very familiar with the challenges of making old properties fully accessible for all abilities and ages. Making the most of every space is so important.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Keep open all assets to the widest spread of visitors, to promote continual use and foster new visitor experiences and thus to ensure continual financial stability that allows full maintenance and upkeep of the entire estate for future generations.
Q: Anything else?I am very much a people person and love talking to everyone. Through discussion can come understanding and, through that, knowledge. I have a thirst for information and a creative mind always full of ideas and a desire to help.
I believe my extensive international experience in Higher Education senior management and governance, together with my work as a producer and project manager may make me a useful contributor to the work of the Council. I have been a member of the National Trust for 35 years and am familiar with many of its properties. As a lifelong gardener with qualifications in garden design I take particular interest in the gardens and landscapes which the Trust maintains, and in tackling climate change so that they are preserved for future generations.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust has a huge responsibility as custodian of our heritage buildings, gardens and agricultural land. I know it takes that responsibility very seriously and I want to play my part in preserving this incredible resource.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?As an experienced educator I have a passion and a track record for enabling young people to succeed and achieve their potential. I also bring my knowledge and love of garden design and the natural landscape.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Preserving our historic and natural spaces whilst ensuring that they are adapting to and tackling the threat of climate change. I believe that the Trust’s main focus should be demonstrating, educating and advocating for best practice in this area.
Q: Anything else?I have always loved visiting Trust properties and gardens, they have entertained my children and brought me peace in troubled times. They play an essential role in preserving rare and sometimes unique plant species. I want to help.
I’ve been a member for under a year, giving me access to some of the beautiful gardens in the country whilst travelling around the coastline of Britain, and thought wouldn’t it be lovely if I could contribute in some small way to the vision of Octavia Hill and help to continue the work of the National Trust for many more generations.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The words of Octavia Hill, who couldn’t possibly have known all those years ago how poignant they still are.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?In my last working role I had the privilege of being involved with the London Gardens Society and how it promoted the green spaces in the City throughout the year; my skill would be enthusiasm to get involved.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?I feel it’s important to encourage the young to become members to continue the championing of climate change, the importance of protecting our natural wildlife habitat, recycling, repurposing items and creating a society where waste becomes minimal.
Q: Anything else?It would be a privilege, if I was successful to become a Council member.
Four generations of my family have been members of the National Trust. My father’s estate included a donation to the Trust. My wife and I are Life Members and now our children and their children too. The Trust is an example to the world of how to preserve its cultural heritage while making this accessible to all. There are many issues facing the Trust, climate change, diversity, accessibility, conservation and funding. My contribution will be to help manage these in a practical and sustainable way within the resources available.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?What inspires me to seek election is the Trust’s commitment to the conservation of buildings and landscapes for the benefit of future generations, the enthusiasm of its staff and volunteers and its success in appealing to a diverse range of cultures of all ages.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have worked for major corporations, managed global businesses, and run several departments and I now manage my own property company. I have extensive practical, financial and business experience in property and in leading project teams on complex projects.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Key challenges are the impact of climate change, managing diversity, maintaining accessibility; environmental protection of gardens and estates, managing an increasing footfall, future funding to expand the number of properties of the Trust and improving efficiency in day-to-day management.
Q: Anything else?My enthusiasm and commitment.
Some of my happiest memories are anchored in National Trust sites. Joining the Trust with my girlfriend (now wife) at St Michael’s Mount in 1985, we share its places with our children, their children and our friends. Experiencing Trust sites at close quarters or from a distance, they have helped to shape us. My civil and structural engineering career tells me how complex and challenging the accessibility and preservation of all these places can be. I would like to help ensure that they can be part of everyone’s future.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?Sites as diverse as Allen Bank, Kedleston, the Back to Backs and huge sections of the UK coastline demonstrate the facility Trust sites offer for everyone: valuable places which inform, educate or simply help us to feel safe and happy.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?My civil and structural engineering experience, including listed buildings renovation, renewable energy projects and sustainable infrastructure, will help the Trust ensure it can create, preserve and maintain durable and sustainable assets to share with everyone, for ever.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Sustainable access and energy for its assets; simple, durable design for its visitor facilities from footpaths to visitor centres; sensitive, simple, robust, pragmatic solutions to ensure accessibility by active and sustainable means for everyone and longevity of its sites.
Q: Anything else?I have travelled on foot, by bicycle, rail and car, to and through many precious Trust places, year-round, alone, with family and friends. My experiences and skills could help to preserve and enhance such places for everyone, for ever.
The National Trust has provided myself and my family with countless joyful memories. The experiences have added immense intrinsic value and provided me a greater understanding of this country’s beautiful history as well as a thirst to add value in an area close to my heart. A position on the Council would be an opportunity to give back in a wider capacity. The Trust has opened my eyes to a world of charitable work as well as an appreciation of being a part of something much bigger than yourself.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?Visiting a Trust property on the weekends brings me tremendous joy. I have relished being a member and would like to contribute more substantially to the vision as well as ensuring the Trust has a long and prosperous future.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I’ll bring a youthful exuberance to the Trust combined with a modern solution to historical problems. My previous volunteering experience with Oxfam, in addition to my academic track record ensures I can become an asset to the Trust.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust should focus on increasing its exposure to the wider public as well as increasing the number of members within younger demographics. This is critical in ensuring a growing membership base and ultimately a sustainable future.
Q: Anything else?In accordance with the Trust’s principles of equality and diversity, I believe it’s of the upmost importance for young professionals from black and minority ethnic groups to actively support the growth and safeguarding of one of the UK’s oldest institutions.
Lockdowns to me, highlighted the importance of outdoor space and exploring nature on mental health. I care deeply about sustainably preserving our historic environment for all. As a Queen’s Guide, I learnt from a young age the value of dedicated volunteering to improve my local community. I have transferrable experience as a council member in my profession’s women’s network, collaborating and influencing leaders towards gender equality, and as a business advisor to a social enterprise. I will bring compassion and a problemsolving, delivery-focus mindset to the Council.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?As an avid wildlife photographer and employee of a global energy company in transition to net zero, I find the Trust’s dedication to nature conservation and sustainability in a changing climate hugely inspiring.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Commercial acumen from a global energy trading business – in my profession I innovate cost-effective solutions to complex problems, in a fast-paced environment, balancing multiple stakeholders, ensuring the best outcome for the overall group.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Sustainability – creating affordable access particularly to those in urban areas, empowering individuals to support their local green spaces, and expanding the customer experience to increase diverse retention.
Q: Anything else?I’m excited for the opportunity to apply my professional experience, to guide new ways of working, leave a more sustainable outlook, and ensure future generations have the same opportunity to enjoy our historic natural spaces as my family and I.
My passion for history and the outdoors, combined with commercial experience are where I will add value. Board level leadership of marketing strategies, digital transformation, brand, and product launches that delivered extraordinary growth. This experience will help drive reach, new ideas that appeal to the young and non-members, ‘for everyone, for ever’ and ultimately improve finances. My consultancy firm Potentuel, and student mentoring are also aligned to the people strategy, where every single person can thrive, channelling this energy further by surfacing their ideas to the benefit of the National Trust.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I relish and would thrive working in an environment where collaboration not confrontation drives sound decisionmaking. Reaching strategic goals and achieving targets for such a great cause through voluntary efforts and altruism play to my strengths and beliefs.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?A commercial perspective, a wide range of general management experience plus marketing and people skills to effectively improve visitor experience, engaging and attracting new audiences.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Maximising reach, visitors and membership by understanding and effectively targeting and engaging non-members with dynamic visitor experiences and communications plus creating an inclusive culture that enables every single person at the Trust to contribute and their great ideas to thrive.
Q: Anything else?Spanish family and interest in Spanish historic sites, based in Santiago in Galicia, home of the Camino. We can learn from their approach, how they have broadened the appeal of sites breathing new commercial life into their locations.
A Chartered Surveyor with just shy of 40 years’ knowledge and experience of land and property, including canal-side listed warehouses, a Grade II* airport terminal, two Victorian asylums, pubs, and rural land and property. I have appointed and managed consultants, sat on regeneration Boards, and was a pension scheme trustee from 2007 –2023. A lapsed member of the National Trust living near Lyme Park, I rejoined in 2023 to visit the remarkable Cragside. I believe my energy, enthusiasm and experience would be invaluable to the Trust as a Council member.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?As the owner of the largest private property portfolio in Britain, the Trust is in a unique position to use its heritage land and buildings for the nation’s cultural and social benefit, and the economic benefit of local communities.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have years of experience managing land and property, including heritage and rural assets, and have appointed and managed consultants, sat on regeneration Boards, and was a pension scheme trustee from 2007–2023.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Addressing the loss of biodiversity and the climate crises. Food security is essential to a nation, and as the nation’s largest farm owner the Trust should commit to farming with food production, nature and their tenant farmers’ livelihoods in mind.
Q: Anything else?I am a shareholder of a Community Benefit Society that leases and runs Warwick Bridge Corn Mill, a Grade II* listed building built in 1803, as a community bakery. Our vision is to create a sustainable future for the mill.
Applicant now withdrawn from election.
I’m a leading consultant in volunteering, providing strategic guidance to a range of charities. I am a regular trainer and presenter at voluntary sector events. Separately, my family’s small business has been awarded local Peak District Environmental Quality Mark, demonstrating best environmental practices in our operations. Our family care deeply about our local countryside and are out 365 days a year. I am a current trustee of a local organisation providing support for children with special educational needs, and have previously volunteered with the National Trust at Lyme, and elsewhere.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?As well as being a lifelong Trust member, my family are lucky to live where we do, with the Trust woven through our daily lives in the Peak District: I would like to contribute in the small way I can.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I bring professional skills in the voluntary sector to support the Trust to continue to deliver its best-in-field people programmes, recognising the myriad of benefits of volunteering to diverse local communities, laddering up to achievement of the Trust’s overall ambition.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Proactive reversing and campaigning in the area of climate change should be a focus, though consideration must be given to the rapid changes in the political and economic climate, and a 10-year strategy must be agile and responsive.
Q: Anything else?I have experience in joint volunteering, involvement, and participation teams in national charities, and I am passionate about true involvement and cocreation, where possible, with diverse stakeholders. I hope this ethos will complement and enhance Trust ways of working.
A life member since 1982 and a volunteer since 2004. As a muddy boots livestock farmer and a volunteer specialist, I have advised property staff on farming and estate management in every region of the National Trust. This experience has given me a deep knowledge of the strengths and weakness of the organisation. I support the Trust’s environmental initiatives. However it needs to balance the interests of commercial production on family farms. The Trust relies on effective partnership with its farmers to deliver sustainable environmental targets, food security and the commercial activity in the countryside which preserves rural communities, skills and traditions.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I share the passion and activism of our founders who established a leadership in social reform which is as relevant in today’s changing society as it was over 100 years ago.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I can fill a gap in the Council skills matrix which is otherwise lacking in expertise in commercial land use and estate management on farms and properties similar to those that make up most of the Trust land holding.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust must balance the delivery of the often, conflicting, aspirations of those who want to preserve the past and those who want to build sustainable environmental and social foundations for the future.
Q: Anything else?I am the only commercial farmer elected to Council. However beyond countryside issues I have spoken out on improving disabled access, cycling facilities, wider regional acquisitions, curatorial excellence and governance. I am a dissenting voice on the AGM ‘Quick voting’ innovation.
Standing for re-election. Attendance in last term: 11 out of 11 meetings.
I am applying to join Council because I have been actively volunteering for several years in the form of promoting the region I live in on social media. I promote the Jurassic Coast on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. I publish a newsletter every four weeks describing with photos, several places to visit and organise trips for people who are interested. I consider my goal achieved if someone goes on a trip after reading my descriptions of interesting places in the region.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?An organisation that actively promotes nature, which is important nowadays because most people would rather watch films at home and can plan trips to interesting natural places with the right guidance.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Through the internet, promotion and encouragement of young people to be active and promote values from an early age in order to protect the unique nature we have.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?I believe that the current sites should continue to be promoted and improved, thus increasing the attractiveness of the place. It is also necessary to keep looking for new places, promoting them in the media, in schools and at exhibitions.
Q: Anything else?My articles in social media attract tourists from all over the world, which also translates into profits for the local community, thus giving jobs to local people.
I have been a National Trust member for over 10 years. I have participated in a Trust volunteering holiday, stayed in Trust holiday accommodation, visited many properties, walked miles in Trust parks and enjoyed countless scones. I know about the Trust’s good work in protecting resources for the enjoyment of all. I am keen to pro-actively participate in this. As a scientist and engineer, I am interested in how things work and how I can help improve things. I am keen to contribute my problemsolving skills to support the Trust’s work.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust protects important buildings, gardens and countryside for the enjoyment of all. I want to support the Trust to ensure that its resources continue to be protected and can be made as accessible as possible to all.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?As an experimental scientist, I have a practical, can do, creative approach to problem solving which I will apply to the challenges facing the Trust. I am always keen to ensure that the most is made of existing resources.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?There are many opportunities for digital resources to enhance the visitor experience: QR codes to access more information about specific objects or locations; virtual reality experiences and drone footage can help stop visitors with restricted mobility from missing out.
Visits to National Trust properties have been a significant part of my family life. I would love to use my experience as an executive director and trustee in the creative and culture sector to support the Trust’s Council. I believe my experience of leading public programming, community engagement, marketing and research projects and of championing diversity and inclusion would be valuable in supporting the Trust’s work of celebrating local heritage, community engagement, sustainability and making everyone welcome.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust is part of British life. I believe in its mission and vision to make everyone welcome to its historic properties and special places.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I am an experienced executive director and trustee in the culture sector with skills in historical storytelling, public programming and academic research commissioning.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Sustainability and diversity and inclusion through inspiring storytelling.
My knowledge and skills running membership organisations would, I believe, contribute to delivery of the National Trust’s work. Two key areas where I think it needs to focus are ensuring the Trust’s properties and landscapes are genuinely accessible to all, and (working with others) accelerating habitat restoration. My skills in advocacy (where I believe the Trust can improve), my broad personal empathy and strategic understanding of many different interests, can enhance the successful delivery of the Trust’s strategy.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust is a powerful and inspirational force for good in our country and I think my skills and experience can help harness that power to do even more, particularly through targeted advocacy.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Running membership organisations has given me an understanding of how to satisfy competing interests through sensitive and empathetic listening and compromise – this is the key skill necessary to deepen the Trust’s reputation and expand its membership into under-represented demographics.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust should do more of what it currently does in more places for more people and be more vocal in its advocacy for the sustainable use of our physical and cultural heritage.
Q: Anything else?A politically agile governance professional, I have acted as trustee/ clerk to a charity, as well as run a trade association in the timber sector, giving me insight into the competing interests of land-use management and global sustainability challenges.
As a new father to a four-month-old son, the opportunity to be on the National Trust’s Council has reignited my passion to make a positive difference to nature and our heritage. My whole career, from Army officer to public-sector consultant, has been helping organisations design, implement, deliver and measure the impact of strategies – exactly what the Council is looking for. A passionate environmentalist, I purposely choose to work with governmental environmental agencies to help them achieve their altruistic aims, while also preparing for a potential career in marine conservation.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?For the last 129 years, the Trust has made generations fall in love with history and the environment, as it did me, educating and inspiring people as to their importance and value to us as individuals and a nation.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I believe I have the perfect mix of skills and knowledge: passion for the environment and history; strategy delivery; directorship, trustee and governance experience; charity Chair; teamwork; and, most importantly, a belief in the mission of ‘For everyone, for ever’.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?How to balance the need to fund the ambitious activities of the Trust while ensuring membership fees don’t prevent ‘everyone’ gaining access to, and benefiting from, the Trust giving more people more access to its amazing services.
Q: Anything else?As we face unprecedented environmental issues and threats to public and charitable funding, the Trust’s mission has never been more important. I hope I can be a part of helping the Trust be ‘For everyone, for ever’.
I value the National Trust’s necessary work to preserve our heritage. As a longstanding member, I treasure memories of properties visited, and seaside and Lakes walks. I held senior roles as a strategist, change and business manager in retail finance and the civil service. As a trustee I helped two charities meet growth, change and survival challenges. As a creative problem solver in tune with the values and goals of the Trust, a team player and effective communicator, I can help the Trust build on its strengths and meet its challenges.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I believe the Trust faces challenges in terms of growth, development and change. Its values match my own in many ways and I believe my skills could make a very positive impact in helping an organisation I cherish.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?As a part of the fabric of our society, I believe the Trust can best achieve its vision by adopting and living values in line with those of present and potential members. I understand such issues through my work.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?To continue to build links with and learn from history, by preserving and explaining the varied aspects of our natural and built environment, managing assets sustainably and well, as an example to others and to save them for future generations.
Q: Anything else?As well as my general management and strategy experience, I am a qualified and senior HR practitioner with extensive people management and senior recruitment skills.
I have a background in local government, including time as a Bursar in a secondary school but I have also been an Administrator for a Regional Arts Organisation. I consider myself an ordinary member. My parents were members of the National Trust and my own children now take their children to Trust properties and locations. I want to ensure the Trust continues to engender that appeal and the importance of maintaining and preserving our history and environment going forward whilst making it relevant and engaging to our changing society.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I feel we must try to preserve and manage important areas of our landscape to give people the chance to access beautiful outdoor spaces. We must also preserve and acknowledge our history but acknowledge it in a contemporary context.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have worked in local government in various departments and roles, including over 18 years in schools, nine working as a Bursar. I’ve been Administrator of a Regional Arts Organisation plus over two decades volunteering with a Local Arts Centre.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust needs to ensure it inspires younger members through innovation and improvement of the range of experiences it offers. It must also strengthen the resilience required to meet future climate patterns and continue to lead in environmental management.
Q: Anything else?With no affiliation to any campaign groups my wish is to continue to promote the ethos and vision of the Trust’s founders and to help improve the perception of its work to ensure that its work is valued by everyone.
I was brought up in a family that never really went on holiday nor enjoyed day trips to anything other than the beach that was on our doorstep. A visit to Bodnant Gardens 20 years ago inspired me to take membership of the National Trust as I was immediately taken by the splendour of the settings and the history that was intertwined in its story. The Trust offered me the opportunity to connect with history in a real, physical space.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?I am constantly impressed by the preservation work undertaken by the Trust and the belief that a building (or space) is vital in helping tell the story of the United Kingdom (and beyond). I would like to bring my skills and passion for preservation to the Council.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have a wealth of knowledge in areas such as business planning, strategy setting and financial analysis that I hope will benefit the Trust and its long-term aims.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?Inclusion, access to all and creating a sense of wonder for future generations to ensure the past and our history is not forgotten.
Q: Anything else?From working with multi-nationals to chairing a national theatre company, I hope my skills, knowledge and enthusiasm would be useful additions to the excellent work undertaken by the Council.
As a lifelong fan of the National Trust, my passion for history and nature was kindled during childhood holidays in Norfolk, with several memorable visits to Blickling Hall and Felbrigg Hall. My wife and I continue this tradition through regular walks in Danbury and Blakes Woods, deepening our appreciation for the Trust’s work. My long-standing membership and dedication to preserving our natural and historical heritage motivate my candidacy for the Council, where I would aim to contribute my experiences and enthusiasm.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust’s commitment to preserving the natural beauty and historical integrity of places dear to my heart inspires me to contribute actively to its future direction and stewardship.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?Leveraging over 20 years in IT, focusing on Cloud, Artificial Intelligence, and significant experience in transformation and organisational change, I hope to offer skills to modernise and democratise access, ensuring the Trust remains inclusive, resilient and relevant for everyone, for ever.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?I believe that the Trust should prioritise climate resilience and sustainability, integrating cutting-edge green technologies and practices to safeguard our heritage and landscapes for future generations, while expanding outreach to engage diverse communities in conservation efforts.
Q: Anything else?My diverse experience in IT and deep personal commitment to heritage conservation blend a modern perspective with traditional values, aiming to innovate while preserving the essence of our shared history and natural beauty for generations to come.
I have been a member of the National Trust for over 40 years. For me it is one of the most important and valuable institutions in the UK and one I would be immensely proud to serve. I believe I can contribute to their future success and achievements through my work with communities, with health, wellbeing, and mindfulness as well as a passionate love of nature and the natural world.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust is a national treasure deserving of support nationally, regionally and locally. It seeks to preserve vital parts of our history, environment and our way of being. I can think of no better organisation to give my time to.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?My skill base that may be useful would be surrounding my work with communities through my work in NHS and my coaching work which is peoplecentred at all times. My knowledge base is also in governance and working with Boards.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The focus must be on increased conservation, on climate change, on protection of our natural surroundings and our history, but with education and communication to everyone at the very centre of everything the Trust does.
Q: Anything else?I should be incredibly honoured to put my passion for nature, for our history, our heritage, to good use inside an organisation that I admire so very greatly and would work tirelessly to help to continue its excellent work.
The future will be built – and safeguarded – by engineers. The National Trust will need engineering solutions for its buildings and its open spaces to prepare them for climactic, social and commercial change. Not a single member of the Council or Trustees has an engineering background. Council needs members who are competent engineers; people who can understand the opportunities of technology, the management of risk and the skills of project management. I have the skills, the competence, the aptitude to provide the specialist input and judgement the Trust needs.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The Trust provides a place of calm and beauty in a world of confusion and decay that has many times given me the peace and pause for thought that simply cannot be found in such an accessible form elsewhere.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?I have skills developed over decades in many places and cultures in working with people, challenging environments and political uncertainty that prime me for success in the Trust’s multidimensional and complex environment.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust must focus on protecting its assets from the multiple threats that will assail it in the coming decades, seeking to maximise use of new tools and technologies to improve access and conserve the uniqueness of its assets.
Q: Anything else?Now finally workfree I have the time to dedicate to the role, to coach others where appropriate, and develop teams that will build on diverse skills, beliefs and attitudes to deliver powerful and effective outcomes.
In the early 80s I was a conservation volunteer and National Trust member and have always worked in the environmental sector. I have been fortunate to be part of many innovative environmental projects, from the Millennium Forest to the first urban Nature Improvement Area. I was a Wildlife Trust chief executive for 17 years and a council member of the Canal and River Trust. Now I am an environmental consultant specialising in project development and evaluation and would like to offer my skills and experience to support the National Trust.
Q: What inspires you to seek election?The chance to play a part in the Trust’s work to preserve and conserve precious heritage assets, from historic buildings to many of our most precious landscapes. Especially helping it deliver its responsibilities to society and the environment.
Q: What skills and knowledge would you bring to the Council to help the Trust be ‘for everyone, for ever’?My experience in landscape scale conservation, particularly in urban areas with the engagement of hard-to-reach communities. Experience of land management for conservation, management and development of environmental organisations and projects, and my specialism in project evaluation and assessment.
Q: What should be the Trust's focus in its next 10-year strategy?The Trust must address several pressing challenges: working with neighbours, tenants and partners to protect biodiversity and address climate change; becoming more relevant to and engaging all, especially urban, communities; the impact of increasing costs; and maintaining independence from vested and political interests.
Q: Anything else?I am keen that the Trust hears all the diverse groups with an interest in its policies and finds positive and constructive ways forward, achieving a balance that reflects and gains the support of the communities it serves.