Our Mission & Vision
Bridging the Gap between education and employment, we are a unique youth employment programme that works closely with local businesses and key organisations within the Wealden community.
Every young person deserves success
Our Team
Lisa Crozier
In my previous role as a deputy manager in a children’s home, this has given me a real understanding of some of the barriers young people face. Now as Project Manger for Wealden Works, I have the privileged opportunity of supporting young people and being a part of their transition either into employment or further education. I have a real passion in seeing young people achieve their full potential. Being able to watch their confidence grow from when they first join us till when they leave makes me feel very proud of how far they have come.
Victoria Bowdler
With an early commercial background in the financial services industry, I gained valuable experience navigating both opportunities and challenges. After starting a family, I reassessed my career path and, in 2011, began a new journey supporting young people into employment.
From working directly within the employability sector to becoming a founder member of Wealden Works, I have built extensive knowledge and a strong network of contacts. This has enabled me to support and empower over a thousand young people, helping them plan their career journeys and successfully transition into the world of work.
Breaking down barriers and seeing young people achieve their career goals has been immensely rewarding. I look forward to building on our success at Wealden Works and extending our services even further.
Rachel Thorne
I’ve recently joined Wealden Works and I am really excited to be part of the team and contribute to the wonderful work they do. I previously worked in mental health, supporting people with their wellbeing and social needs. Before that, I worked as an Employment Specialist, helping individuals build confidence and move back into work & build sustainable careers. I’m really passionate about helping others and feel lucky to play a small part in supporting people to recognise and reach their full potential. I’m excited to be part of Wealden Works and truly believe the charity makes a huge difference by supporting young people. I hope the experience I’ve gained allows me to offer positive, meaningful support to young people at Wealden Works.
Our Board
Sally Frost
Director of Newton and Frost Fencing
Tim Hough
Retired. Active Parish Councillor.
Peter Bailey
Senior Partner at Bailey & Co. Former president of Sussex RFU, and now lead member of the team delivering the leadership Academy.
Bob Bowdler
Retired career Soldier and Structural Surveyor. East Sussex County Councillor for ‘Wealden East’ Division and Lead Member of Childrens Services.
Paula Geear
Director, Chairman for the partnership executive and monthly farmers market.
Susan Stedman
Heathfield & Waldron Parish Councillor. Worked in publicity and the charitable sector. WDC district councillor for 20 years. Heathfield and Waldron PC’s representative at WW. Volunteer fundraiser.
Matthew Coates
Group Aftersales Operations Manager & Outlet Manager, Framfield Tuckwells.
Our Ambassadors
We are very proud to have three active and longstanding Ambassadors, all have been great supporters of the project since it opened. Who frontman and OBE Roger Daltrey, Olympic Gold Medallist skater, Dame Jayne Torvill, and England Ruby player Joe Marler. All have played an active part in showing their support for the Youth of Wealden, presenting certificates at the Annual Achievements Awards and taking time to visit our young people to chat about their personal challenges.
Join Now!
Interested in joining our programme?
Whether you are a young person aged 16-24 and living in the Wealden area looking to make a difference to their life, or a business able to offer work placements, permanent jobs or apprenticeships please get in touch.