Andy Richardson
Position: CEO
Role Description
Overall oversight of Uprising, working with the Trustees to ensure Uprising runs smoothly and efficiently on a day to day basis.
Favourite part of the job
Sitting at my desk…only joking! Working alongside people who are passionate and dedicated about seeing lives and communities transformed in Ashford and having the opportunity to work with young people and being a supportive listening ear. Young people are the future, and it is great journeying with them and helping them set off into the big wide world after they realise they can do whatever they put their minds too. I also love power tools and playing sport so the ability to leave my desk and join in on CAT and Hang10 sessions is brilliant.
Interesting Fact
From the age of 2-15 all I ate was marmite on toast for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as a result I have to have marmite daily, otherwise I get withdrawal symptoms!! I might have a few more tattoos since this pic was taken as well!
Paul Buss
Position: COO & Aspire Lead
Role Description
In short, I build lots of spreadsheets that help provide keys stats about our projects to potential funders. I also keep an eye on HR, Health & Safety and making sure we are delivering on our commitments to the community around us.
I also lead 3 projects that help educate children and teenagers. The projects also help them to develop resilience and self-worth.
Favourite part of the job
The best part of my role is when our young people begin to make good choices with their work, attitude and time. They come to us feeling isolated and low on confidence. They often leave with the feeling of achievement and renewed purpose.
Interesting Fact
Outside of work is all about family and from a young age I wanted a big family. I am very blessed to have 7 children, they keep me both young and tired all at the same time!
Chris Lightfoot
Position: Hang10 and Community Action Team Lead
Role Description
CAT Lead
Co-ordinate works and ensure that everyone within the Community Action Team staff/students are trying to help to make a difference within the community of Ashford.
Hang 10 --Lead
Using the power of sport to engage with various community groups within Ashford and develop new strands of Hang10 for disengaged and disadvantaged communities.
Favourite part of the job
Making a positive difference to peoples lives and challenging/changing people's perceptions in many different ways.
Interesting Fact
I used to a model for Hairdressers!
Reuben Buss
Position: Hang10/CAT Session Worker
Role Description
At Hang10 I am responsible for engaging and supporting the young people that come along to the sessions, and where needed I deliver the sessions. On our CAT sessions I am responsible for helping the young people who volunteer to learn new skills by teaching them different practical skills such as mowing, strimming and hedgecutting.
Favourite part of the job
Engaging young people and seeing them develop new skills during their time with Uprising.
Interesting Fact
I think that I am probably the strongest member of the Uprising team!!
Lisa Blackman
Position: Youth Worker/Aspire TA
Role Description
Supporting the Aspire Lead in the delivery of the project.
Favourite part of the job
Building relationships with the young people over the course of the year and watching them grow and change into young adults who have a dream for their futures.
Interesting Fact
The gym is my happy place and I’m pretty sure I could deadlift more than Eddie Hall!
Harvey Longman
Position: Session Worker
Role Description
Supporting the delivery of Hang 10 sessions across Ashford for young people.
Favourite part of the job
Seeing young people on Hang10 enjoying themselves and having a sense of accomplishment. Knowing that I have interacted and made their time with Hang10 fun and enjoyable by creating a safe space where they feel included and part of Uprising.
Interesting Fact
I love cars and have a very good knowledge of car stats, I can also name cars by the sound of the engine. I am also a huge Arsenal fan please don’t tell Andy!!
Arran Thompson
Position: Hang10 Session Worker
Role Description
Supporting the delivery of Hang10 Park It Sessions.
Favourite part of the job
The opportunity to meet young people that I would never usually cross paths with, building relationships and having discussions where I can offer support and help.
Interesting Fact
I am the youngest member of the Uprising team and got the job after completing 2 weeks work experience. I also love Lipton Iced Tea!