We’re delighted to introduce five new trustees to St John’s Foundation: Juliet Crisp, Alun Branigan, John Bearman, and Helen Mee.
Juliet Crisp joins us with a strong focus on people and culture, offering valuable insight into how we support, engage, and develop our teams.
Alun Branigan and John Bearman bring their financial expertise to our Investment Committee, helping us distribute our resources wisely and sustainably.
Helen Mee adds extensive experience in supporting older adults, strengthening our approach to later-life care.
Each brings with them not only a wealth of knowledge and experience, but also a deep commitment to our mission of changing lives for good. Trustees play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of St John’s, ensuring we remain focused, responsible, and ready to serve our community, today and as we move into the future.
We recently asked each of them what inspired them to become part of St John’s, and what excites them about their new role. Their reflections reveal a shared passion for community, care, and ensuring St John’s continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of people we support.
Juliet Crisp
“Having moved to Bath two and a half years ago, I was looking for any opportunity to use my business and trustee experience. The addition of the new role of trustee for People and Culture at St John’s Foundation gives me the opportunity to use my HR and business skills, expertise, and experience gained from working in FTSE companies, for the benefit of a local charity.
People are the heart of any organisation, and I am passionate about ensuring the staff at St John’s Foundation have a great experience working at a charity which has a clear purpose and mission to help those most in need in Bath and North Somerset.”
Alun Branigan
“Since coming to Bath, I have been struck by two things. The first is the strong sense of a friendly, caring, and supportive community, and the second is its history and heritage. These both come together in the work of St John’s.
To be part of something that has supported its community for 850 years is inspiring, and a little daunting! You feel a strong sense of responsibility to ensure that it continues to thrive and support those in need.
Like so many of us, I am personally aware of the challenges that older adults face and the need for them to be able to enjoy their later years with dignity and independence. The work that St John’s does is so important in this regard. That need is only going to grow, so it’s crucial we are there for them, and that inspires everyone at St John’s.”
John Bearman
“I was initially attracted to St Johns because of its very long history of providing help and support to older people in a time of great need.
With over 30 years of direct investment experience at a number of large financial organisations, I also felt I could help support the charity through my membership of the Investment Sub-Committee and help to continue to develop a long-term investment strategy that supports the charity aims. The ethos and aims of the charity really struck a chord with me and I felt I could contribute to the excellent work already being done by the charity.”
Helen Mee
In my working life, I am focused on providing the best the NHS can offer for older people in our communities, and this became more personal as my parents aged.
The chance to join St John’s and support the work they do- working alongside local people to ensure there is access to support that promotes wellbeing- was an opportunity for me to use my experience positively and also to build my learning in a different sector.
I am thrilled to be a part of the St John’s Foundation and to work together with the community.
Trustees are key to guiding our work, helping us plan for the future while keeping our mission and values at the heart of what we do. Welcome Juliet, Alun, John, Helen, and Bryan to St John’s; we’re looking forward to continuing to make an impact with you all.
