Community Advice Team

Ann Allen – Income Maximisation Advisor
I originally became involved with Reach as a debt client in 2007. I was so impressed with the help and support received that I volunteered to help in any way I could. After working for many years in sales and running sales departments it was a refreshing change to be able to offer support to people facing the many problems caused by debt, family breakdowns and many other issues life often throws at us.

As a co-founder of the charity, I have been involved with most aspects from managing the foodbank, debt cases then launching and managing the Resource Centre. More recently as I have reached retirement age, I made the decision to step down to working three days a week to concentrate on family life, safe in the knowledge that I could hand over the reins to a fantastic and competent team who are also passionate about what Reach does.

I’m a mum of one married son and now have a young grandson. I recently remarried after the death of my first husband and have come to know how valuable family and friends are. My husband Chris and I run a smallholding with ever-increasing numbers of various animals; sheep, chickens and ducks plus an energetic Parson Russell Terrier. I seem to be busier than ever but it's a good work/home life balance and I wouldn't change anything.