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Dementia Support is delighted to announce its new Chair of Trustees - Philippa Nesbit. After 8 years our founder Anthony Wickins will be stepping down as Chair but luckily for us is remaining on the board as our Deputy Chair. We are also pleased to announce that trustee Richard Broadribb will be taking on a Deputy Chair position.
Anthony founded the charity, with Lucinda Langmead after personal family experiences highlighted the need for better dementia care. As Chair of Trustees, Anthony has led the charity from its very beginnings to being the centre of excellence for dementia care that Sage House is. We are incredibly grateful for Anthony’s unwavering commitment to the Charity and we look forward to his continued support and contribution as Deputy Chair.
We wanted to share with our supporters a bit more about Philippa, who has been a trustee since September 2020. Our team sat down with Philippa to ask some questions to find out more:
What did you do before getting involved at Dementia Support?
I was a banker in London for 28 years working for Citibank, an American bank. I have been a Corporate Banker, Chief Risk Officer and my last role was the Global Head of Trust and Wealth Planning in Citi Private Bank.
Why did you get involved in Dementia Support?
My grandfather had dementia and more recently a close family friend was diagnosed and so I have seen the impact that dementia has on the individual, as well as on their family and friends. I also retired from banking as I wanted to do more charitable work. When Dementia Support was advertising for trustees, it coincided with my permanent move down to the area and so the timing was perfect!
What makes Sage House/Dementia Support special?
Without a doubt, it is the people. The customers of course, but also the permanent team and our wonderful volunteers. The environment created by the Dementia Support people at Sage House and through our broad connections into the community is a warm and safe space for everyone wherever they are on their journey with dementia.
What do you want to achieve during your time as chair?
The stats on dementia and the impact it has on carers as well, are stark and terrifying. There are three things we need to focus on, building on the deep foundations already in place. Firstly, we need to increase the awareness of Dementia Support in our region. By doing this, we can then in turn extend our reach and get to more people who need us. Lastly, we need to increase education and awareness of dementia.
Can you tell me about one of your happiest memories?
It is an older memory of probably almost 20 years ago but I can picture it perfectly when I close my eyes. It is my two children (then 4 and 6) running and playing happily together on a beach whilst I sat half reading and half watching them.
Can you tell me about someone you’ll always remember?
My father, who died suddenly and unexpectedly a few years ago. We had a very close relationship and I have some wonderful memories of things we did together.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I am very fortunate that my partner and I have time to enjoy all of our interests, especially motor racing and flying! On a slower note, we have two dogs and so are often found on the Downs or on the beach.
Anything you would like to say to our supporters?
Thank you. Without you we wouldn’t be here.