Our Trustees

  • John Taylor, Chair

    laura@theberincentre.co.uk

    Laura joined The Berin Centre in March 2021. She’s worked in the charity sector in Oxfordshire for a number of years, working for early years organisation HENRY and running the Oxfordshire Recovery College.

    She really believes in the power of community, and is excited to see The Berin Centre grow and flourish with involvement from local residents. If you have an idea for the centre, she wants to hear about it!

    When not working she can be found walking her dog or curled up with a good book.

  • Debbie Backhouse, Treasurer

    lin@theberincentre.co.uk

    I always provide a friendly welcome and the opportunity for you to meet other parents and build friendships.

    I have extensive experience of working in Children and Family Centres and have undertaken a vast array of professional training in Early Years, Parenting, Safeguarding and Health and Safety.

    I’m able to support you with family issues, transition into school, and parenting, in a friendly and confidential way, both in a group setting and on a one to one basis.

  • Tim Martin

    Tim lives down the road from Berinsfield and has been a frequent visitor for over 35 years. Recently retired, he worked for many years in law and finance in both private and public sectors , specialising in funding and governance of a wide range of organisations.

    He served as a trustee of Oxfordshire Youth for several years and joined the Berin Centre in May 2024 and sees the Centre as critical to the success of Berinsfield's community development and enhancing the life chances of residents.

    He is very happy working in his garden so is very excited to see the Centre’s gardens flourishing!

  • Robin Bennett

    Lizzie@theberincentre.co.uk

    Hello, I’m Lizzie and my role is to help run welcoming, creative and fun sessions for young children and their families.

    My background is in Early Years, having previously worked in a Nursery setting with children aged 0-5. I have a keen interest in child development and I just love children - they are so funny, curious and refreshingly honest! I am also trained in baby massage where I am privileged to help parents establish amazing connections with their children.

    Outside of work, I am kept very busy with my own toddler!

  • Jackie Logan

    Rebecca@theberincentre.co.uk

    Hi, I’m Rebecca and I work with volunteers to care for the community garden, growing a variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers for everyone to enjoy.

    I have years of experience in Horticulture and I’m deeply passionate about using our skills as growers to improve the natural environment, the local community, and our own quality of life. 

    If you have any questions or you’d like to get involved, please contact me!

    Outside of work I love to read, crochet, and eat chocolate!

  • Cath Nicholson

    Sue@theberincentre.co.uk

    My role is to engage with residents across Berinsfield and the surrounding villages through our different groups, courses and other activities. 

    I have spent my working life supporting people in difficult times - first as a speech and language therapist in the NHS working with older people, and more recently working with people who have found themselves in crisis debt.

    As I work to support and build community connections in our local area I am really keen to hear your ideas of ways we can do this better (and perhaps to hear your story!) - so please do get in touch!

  • Leona Sweetland

    Sam@theberincentre.co.uk

    I have extensive experience in catering and have previously worked in a Members Club, SEN School, Hotels and cafes. I’m passionate about food and thrive on sharing my knowledge and passion. I love to cook at home and get inspired by social media and current trends, but would say I’m also traditional at heart as my favourite meal has to be a Sunday Roast. I’m keen to learn from others’ experiences and the diversity that we can all bring… and of course people’s favourite cake!

  • Bethany Greenwood

    Laurap@theberincentre.co.uk

    I’ve been working in pubs and restaurants for over 20 years and have perfected the art of the best roast potato and gravy!

    I am a foodie through and through and cook everything with enthusiasm, heart and love. I am enjoying working in the community and the wonderful welcome we have been given and what we can bring to the community.