Emma Rees

Chief Operating Officer /
Mental Health Practitioner

Emma Rees played a major part in the formation of The Kelly Foundation which is also known as 4Kelly.

She says "Looking after our mental health is so important and everyone deserves to thrive with good mental health and well being. I've worked in mental health for quite a while now and I feel passionately about championing individuals who need support. There is a real need for free therapy in our community. Not everyone can afford private counselling costs or therapies. This can cause despair, isolation and honestly not knowing which way to turn. I want everyone that reaches out for our help to know that there is someone to listen and help, for them to know they are not alone."

Emma has 10 years experience and qualifications that have allowed her to work in mental health and support vulnerable adults with both mental health issues and learning disabilities. Emma is also qualified to act as a general advocate.

Sarah Forrester

Counselling Coordination Manager

Sarah qualified as a Person Centered Counsellor and works for The Kelly Foundation as both a Counsellor and as a Therapy Co-Ordination Manager. She wants to wake up in the morning and go to work doing something she is really passionate about and a role whereby she can make a real difference to people's lives. She now helps people through all kinds of different life issues from stress, anxiety, depression, bereavements, low self-esteem and confidence amongst other things.

She says "Poor mental health can sneak up on anyone, at any time, it doesn't discriminate and can affect people of any gender, any age, any background. It is extremely important to get the message out there, that help is available, without judgement. There is no need for the old school style of 'stiff upper lip' anymore, this is just exhausting and doesn't make for a peaceful or happy life. If you are struggling and need a bit of guidance, support or a friendly ear in a confidential environment - don't be afraid to speak up - that is what we are here for."

John Stooke

Chairman

"I'm John Stooke and I am honoured to Chair this charity set up in memory of two of my children Corrie and Kelly, who both left our world far too soon as a direct result of poor mental health. When the idea was first floated, it seemed way too ambitiously however obvious urgent the need was (and I speak from personal experience) the need to offer something more than a purely medical solution to people's chronic anxiety and depression. My personal confidence in Emma knows no limits and I'm both excited and optimistic to begin this journey under her stewardship. Although I have more than 40 years of senior business experience, I'm delighted to say I'm learning new things every day."

Claire Bentley

Trustee

"My name is Claire Bentley and I am Kelly's sister. I currently hold the position as IT Director for the UK and APAC region in a large multinational company. I have witnessed at first hand just how mental health needs can destroy people's hopes and dreams. Growing up, Kelly was bright, cheerful and outgoing (if just a little bit annoying) and she showed no sign of what the future might hold. Progressively it became harder and harder for her to put on the kind of face that the world expected. We, in her close family, knew just what challenges she overcame every day, in every month, in every year, for a very long time. To friends and colleagues, she remained a bubbly, bright, outgoing character but inside it became more and more difficult for her. I have joined the Trust because I believe I can offer business skills and importantly I want to try to do something to help the many Kellys that are out there that are feeling despair and in need of support. I have a special interest in addiction and am a strong advocate of holistic health."

Rob Abbott

Trustee

"My name is Rob Abbott. I'm 60 years old and have recently retired from full time employment. In my younger days I spent 5 years in the Royal Air Force before joining a global Relocation company where I gained Business experience in a variety of Senior Leadership roles such as Operations, HR, Training and Business strategy.

I recently joined the Kelly Foundation as one of the Trustees and hopefully can support this great cause with general Business insight as required.

Mental well-being is both underfunded and a critical issue in todays society and I hope the Trust will be able to provide much needed help to those we seek to assist."

Dave Southby

Trustee

"I'm Dave Southby, and I was honoured to be asked to join the Trustee board at The Kelly Foundation in 2024. I originally became aware of The Kelly Foundation through their support of a friend, so I have seen at first-hand the positive impact this charity has on the lives of its service users and their families. Anyone's life can be impacted by their mental health, so it's very important to understand the signs and where to go to get support.

In my day job I am the founder & Director of a local Financial Planning business. I want and intend to use my business experience to help grow the charity and connect them with other local businesses."

Steve Carr

Trustee

"My name is Steve Carr, and I am dedicated to improving mental health awareness and suicide prevention. With a background in corporate leadership and mental health advocacy, I have witnessed firsthand how struggles with mental health can impact individuals, families, and workplaces.

Having faced my own journey through trauma, addiction, and recovery, I now use my experience to support others in finding resilience and hope. As the founder of Mindcanyon, I have trained thousands of professionals in mental health awareness and suicide prevention, equipping them with practical tools to create healthier environments.

I joined The Kelly Foundation to contribute my knowledge and lived experience, ensuring that those in crisis receive the support they need. My passion lies in reducing stigma, empowering individuals to seek help, and promoting holistic well-being. Through my work, I hope to honor those we have lost and be a voice for those still fighting."

Martyn Woerner

Trustee and Finance Manager

"I have been involved with a mental health charity for many years and am excited at the new, hands on approach of The Kelly Foundation to greatly help many people in Swindon that are experiencing or will experience life-destabilising episodes. Anyone can have a life-altering event that throws their mental life into chaos, many others have continuing emotional upsets and I am delighted to be able to help The Kelly Foundation provide practical support and understanding to those with mental anguish."