We are delighted to introduce Louise Cuthbertson, the newest member of our Board of Trustees — bringing with her a wealth of financial expertise, business experience, and a genuine passion for supporting the local community.

Above: Trustees Rob, Doug, Louise and Chair Hayley.

Living in Westbury with her husband and three teenage boys, Louise feels it’s now the right time in life to give back to her local community.

“I’ve always wanted to do something meaningful to support others,” she explains. “Giving time in a practical way has always appealed to me, and becoming a Trustee felt like the right fit.”

Louise has built an impressive career across finance and business. An accountant by trade with a finance degree, she currently works for BT specialising in financial transformation. Before this she ran her own property business, giving her broad experience across all aspects of running and managing organisations.

Her connection to Abbeyfield Bristol and Keynsham, however, is also deeply personal.

Louise’s uncle recently moved into Abbeyfield House, Henleaze — an experience that gave her first-hand insight into the difference the charity makes.

Above: Abbeyfield House, Henleaze.

“It really opened my eyes to how wonderful the place is and how much he has gained from living in a supported environment while still maintaining his independence,” she says.

After attending Abbeyfield Bristol and Keynsham’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) to support her uncle and hearing more about the charity’s plans for the future, Louise mentioned her financial experience — and the opportunity to become a Trustee soon followed.

“Abbeyfield specifically appealed to me because it’s close to home and I wanted to support my local community,” she says. “It also felt like a good-sized charity for a first Trustee role.”

Since joining the board, Louise has particularly enjoyed meeting new people and stepping into something completely different from her corporate day job.

“It covers such a wide range of issues outside of finance,” she says. “It’s been really interesting seeing how my skills can be used in different environments.”

One of the highlights so far has been spending time with residents.

“I love the fact that I get to sit and interact with the residents. Everyone has been so interested in finding out more about me and what I can bring to the charity — and, of course, I’ve enjoyed the delicious homecooked lunches too!”

Like any new role, becoming a Trustee has come with challenges, particularly balancing the time commitment and getting up to speed during the first few months. However, Louise says the warm and supportive nature of the board and staff has made all the difference.

“Everyone is so friendly and supportive. There’s really a feeling that no question is a bad question, and being a new pair of eyes is actually valued.”

When asked whether she would recommend becoming a Trustee, Louise’s answer is an enthusiastic yes.

“It’s given me back far more than I expected,” she says. “It’s been incredibly rewarding.”

For anyone considering taking on a Trustee role themselves, her advice is simple:

“Have an informal conversation first — that’s what I did with Hayley — it’s a great way to get a feel for the role and what is expected of a Trustee for Abbeyfield Bristol and Keynsham.”

We are thrilled to have Louise on our Board of Trustees and look forward to the knowledge, enthusiasm and community spirit she continues to bring to the charity.

We are currently looking for more Trustees to join our board. If you are interested you can find more information about the role here.