Network Ambassadors

Ambassadors use their contacts and networks to support and contribute to events to help raise awareness of the importance of Green Care and of the Network’s activities, and seek to promote helpful links or support for the Network. 

Ambassador activities include: 

  • Connecting with key organisations, community figures, groups and networks.
  • Engaging professionals and organisations that might help the Network in its activities.
  • Attending and possibly speaking on behalf of the Network at meetings and events.
  • Managing stands at conferences and other events to inspire support for Green Care and the Network.
  • Researching and exploring provision and needs for green care across the County.
  • Exploring potential funding opportunities to support the Network’s activities.
  • Advising the Support Team on the development of activities and events.

Katie Bristow: I am a Director of Operations for People & Animals UK CIC, and have also joined as a Director of Hereford Community Farm in 2021. I have a BSc in Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Play Work and providing therapeutic play environments. Combined with my studies in Animal Behaviour my professional background includes establishing the PAWS programme (Parents Autism Workshops and Support Services) with Dogs for the Disabled (now Dogs for Good). After founding People & Animals UK CIC with Julie Milsom in 2015, I have since established the Wisbech Community Farm; developing Alternative Education Provision, Adult Day Service Provision, Community Engagement and Development, all underpinned by the magic of nature. I have also also contributed to the development of The Green Care Coalition https://greencarecoalition.org.uk

David Garrett: I’m Head of Knowledge Transfer at Garden Organic.  My role involves overseeing the charity’s outreach projects around the UK, including the county-wide Norfolk Master Composters and various other community growing initiatives.  My focus is on environmental education; empowering people and communities with the skills and confidence to make positive environmental choices.

Dr. Sarah Hanson: I am based at UEA, and involved in community based, prevention research especially with marginalised groups. My focus is inequalities, with a special interest in walking (especially in groups) and the health benefits of the outdoors. I am especially interested in taking an Asset Based approach to Communtiy Development and focusing on what makes us well.

Professor Tim O’Riordan: I am President of CPRE Norfolk and President of Norfolk Association of Local Councils. I am working on a wellbeing initiative for the Norfolk ALC and a charter for sustainable localism for the Norfolk Lieutenancy. I am very keen to see regeneration for society and especially for young people in Norfolk and beyond, as well as regeneration for land use in all of its forms and locales.