Our People

Our team is led by Chief Executive Jo Harper, with Liz Crutchley as Chair of the Board.

Gateway was founded with a clear mission: to support people into formal training and employment, ultimately improving their health and wellbeing. Whilst our training department is smaller than when we started out (though we still do lots of it so do check out our info on RSPH training!) we absolutely recognise and support the link between health and wellbeing and work, and that’s as important for our people as those we support.

We believe that support is best coming from those who are just a few steps ahead—individuals who have faced similar challenges and made real progress. That’s why we actively recruit people with lived experience of the issues our client’s encounter. Their personal journeys make them relatable role models, offering encouragement and inspiration that feel genuinely within reach.

Our workforce is drawn from all communities, reflecting the diversity of the people we serve. By recruiting and training local talent, we not only have a reliable workforce who stay with us but also ensures stronger, more meaningful connections with those we support.

Management Team

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Jo Harper

Chief Executive

Jo joined Gateway in 2009, becoming Operations Manager in 2012 and Chief Executive in 2022.

With experience across the private, charity, and Third Sectors, she is dedicated to reducing inequalities. Her work has supported those facing long-term unemployment and individuals with disabilities. Jo is excited about leading Gateway to support more people across Birmingham, Solihull and the Black Country.

“At Gateway, we believe in creating real opportunities for people to thrive. Co-produced solutions with those who face barriers, in health, wellbeing or in moving forwards, empowers individuals to build brighter, healthier futures— for themselves, their families and their communities.”

Jemma

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Jemma Abbott

Solihull Operations Manager

Jemma began her career at Gateway as a Programme Manager in 2017, before transitioning into the role of leading the Solihull Integrated Lifestyle Service. More recently, she took on the position of Solihull Operations Manager. An MBA graduate, Jemma also champions Business Development and created our Workplace Wellbeing offering for corporate clients.

With a background in Children and Families, Jemma served as a Regional Manager in the Southeast. Additionally, she has experience as a Youth and Community Worker and a Youth Offending Officer. Passionate about driving change through effective management, Jemma places a high value on innovation in her work.

“Supporting people to make positive changes is at the heart of what we do. By empowering individuals and communities, we create lasting impact and healthier futures."

Alice

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Alice Miller

Head of Operations

Alice joined Gateway in 2021 as part of the Neighborhoods Team. Alice successfully led on the Early Help and Neighborhood Network Scheme before becoming Gateway's Head of Operations in 2023. As Head of Operations she ensures that all our services run smoothly and that they align with Gateway's ethos and values.

With over 20 years working across Public, Education and the VCSE Sectors designing and delivering services to empower individuals and communities, she is exited to continue this alongside the fantastic teams at Gateway.

“I'm passionate about shaping services that truly empower communities, making sure they run smoothly and have a lasting impact. Working alongside such a dedicated team, I love seeing the difference we can make together."

Debbie

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Debbie Hett

Data and Monitoring Manager

Debbie joined Gateway in 2011 and has managed programmes including Lighten Up and Five Ways to Health & Wellbeing. She plays a key role in data collection, auditing, and evaluation across multiple contracts.

As part of the Solihull Integrated Lifestyle Service, Debbie oversees the Triage function, ensuring staff training, development, and effective data management.She also oversees the Carer@Heart service, supporting unpaid carers in their vital roles.

“Accurate data tells the story of our impact. By tracking progress and outcomes, we ensure our services make a real difference in people’s lives."

Raj

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Rajbinder Thind

Service Lead - Early Help

Raj joined Gateway Family Services in September 2024 as the Early Help Service Lead, bringing 16 years of experience in the voluntary sector. Her journey began as a frontline worker supporting vulnerable families affected by domestic abuse, homelessness, and mental health challenges. Transitioning into management, she sought to use her firsthand experience to drive meaningful change, advocate for families, and strengthen community support through partnership and early intervention.

“True impact comes from a collective approach; No single service can address complex family needs and isolation. It requires strong partnership, clear roles and early interventions to ensure families receive the right support and the right time. When agencies work together, sharing expertise and resources, the interventions become more effective, leading to real sustainable change."

Katy

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Katy Rainey Hemus

Service Lead - Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership

Katy's input into MNVP started as a service user back in 2018. Her passion is and will always be to represent service users voices in maternity and neonatal care. She has worked in the voluntary sector supporting families and training volunteers for over 18 years and so she has a wide understanding of some of the issues that families face when it comes to their care. She support people making informed choices about their care and truly believe that service users should have an active role in shaping the service that serve them.

“Supporting people to make positive changes is at the heart of what we do. By empowering individuals and communities, we create lasting impact and healthier futures."

Nat

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Natalie Lavin

Service Lead - Social Prescribing and ENNS

Natalie joined Gateway in August 2023, originally as the Service Lead for Early Help and Edgbaston Neighbourhood Network Scheme (ENNS). Since September 2024 Natalie has taken on the mantel as Service Lead for Social Prescribing and ENNS.

With over 20 years of dedicated service in the charity sector, she brings with her a wealth of experience and is a beacon of passion, inclusive leadership and community spirit. Natalie brings energy and heart to everything she does.

“Supporting people to make positive changes is at the heart of what we do. By empowering individuals and communities, we create lasting impact and healthier futures."

Cathy

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Cathy Sinton

Delivery Team Coordinator - Solihull Lifestyles Service

Cathy supports and coordinates the Solihull Integrated Lifestyle Service (SILS) team, helping to improve health and wellbeing while reducing health inequalities across Solihull.

She joined Gateway in 2019 from the Solihull Stop Smoking Service, where she was a specialist workplace advisor and events coordinator. With a background in nursing, Cathy previously specialised in haemodialysis, bringing a wealth of healthcare experience to her role.

“Small changes can lead to big improvements in health. Supporting people on their journey to better wellbeing is what truly makes a difference."

Leah

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Leah Crawford

Social Prescribing Coordinator

Leah Crawford previously worked with people with dual diagnoses of mental health and learning disabilities, using a holistic, positive approach to help people build their confidence and wellbeing. She’s looking forward to bringing this experience to Gateway.

“Everyone deserves the right support to thrive. A little encouragement and the right approach can make all the difference."

Anita

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Anita Ward

Social Prescribing Coordinator

Anita Ward joined Gateway after five years in a managerial role at a Birmingham community charity. She now leads the Social Prescribing Link Worker teams and works as a Social Prescribing Coordinator, helping connect people with the right support to improve their health and wellbeing.

“Good health isn’t just about medicine—it’s about connection, support, and finding what works for you. That’s where social prescribing makes a real difference."

Max

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Maxine Brown

Office Manager

Maxine joined Gateway in 2009 as a Programme Administrator for the Health Trainers, later becoming Office Manager in 2014.

With a diverse background in administration, Maxine has worked across the public and private sectors in HR, insurance underwriting, and customer service, before transitioning to the Third Sector.

“Behind every successful programme is a strong, organised team. I’m proud to support our work by keeping things running smoothly and efficiently."

Chris

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Chris Ha

Marketing and Communication Manager

Chris joined Gateway in November 2021, bringing extensive experience in marketing, social media, and PR. He specialises in creating authentic, engaging content that helps businesses and services stand out.

Chris leads Gateway’s PR and marketing strategies, ensuring they are creative, impactful, and aligned with organisational objectives. He has played a key role in evaluating and strengthening communication strategies while maintaining brand consistency across all channels.

“Good marketing isn’t just about looking good—it’s about making people care. If we can grab attention, spark a conversation, and maybe even raise a smile, we’re doing it right!"