OUR PEOPLE

WERS is made by people. Clients, staff, volunteers, trustees, patrons, supporters and friends all play a part in our work.
We bring different languages, cultures, skills and experiences, but share the same commitment:

to make the North East a place of practical welcome,
|dignity and belonging for refugees and people seeking asylum.

  • Andy Durma

    Chief Executive
    🗣️ Polish, English

    Andy works with staff, trustees, partners and people with lived experience to shape WERS’ direction and make sure the charity stays focused on practical support, strong relationships and long-term change.

  • Tarik Alali

    Community Outreach Worker
    🗣️ Arabic, English

    Tarik works directly with refugees and people seeking asylum in community settings, helping people access practical support and find their way through local services.

  • Emma Ross

    Community Engagement Coordinator
    🗣️ English

    Emma supports people to build skills, confidence and connections through SkillsMatch, volunteering and community opportunities across WERS.

  • Faye Douglas

    Activities and Volunteering Coordinator
    🗣️ English

    Faye coordinates activities, volunteers and community sessions that help people connect, take part and feel more settled in the North East.

  • Shaunagh Carroll

    Fundraising Lead
    🗣️ English

    Shaunagh works with funders to bring in the income WERS needs to keep services running and develop new work.

  • Julie Watt

    Finance Manager
    🗣️ English

    Julie supports WERS’ financial management, helping the charity plan carefully, report clearly and make sound decisions about its resources.

  • New List Item

    Description goes here

  • New List Item

    Description goes here