Claire Banham - Founder & Director
Having walked with a family member through a season of problematic anxiety, I became convinced of the need for an easily accessible point of support to help young people reduce and control the anxiety that is making life such a struggle. And so The Haven was born...
As a youth worker with over 20 years of experience (and a mum of teenagers) I relish the opportunity to provide a safe space for young people to learn practical tools that can make a real difference to their lives. The results we see and the feedback we get from participants and parents is so encouraging - it's a real incentive to keep going!
Our Team:
Jane Wilson - Haven Operations Coordinator
Seeing young people today struggle with the pressures and pace of life, I was delighted to find an organisation that works with them to build mental health resilience.
The tools that Haven offers make such a difference to the wellbeing of young people, a difference that is ongoing and truly transformational, preventing crisis at a later date.
As Desmond Tutu said "There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they're falling in".
I'm so happy to be involved and to do what I can to help Haven reach as many young people as possible and stop them falling in.
Alan MacKinnon - Chair, Haven Advisory Board
The work Haven does positively supports young people and equips them with all the tools they need to successfully and safely navigate through the challenges of today's world, because looking after their mental and physical wellbeing is so valuable. I am delighted to be part of it and offer what I can to help Haven to grow and flourish.
Haven can and does make a huge difference in the lives of the young people it helps. To see this positive impact and to hear from those young people who have benefitted from what Haven offers is hugely rewarding and makes me want to help more!
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Rev’d Andy Pike
Clinical Advisor
As a practising Clinical Psychologist I have a passion to see good mental health start as early as possible and as a church leader I have been impressed with the way that The Haven uses practical, spiritual and emotional tools to undo the damaging narratives that can prevent young people being all that they are called to be.
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Jane Munroe
Haven Advisory Board
Having worked in Education for 40 years I know that many children and young people suffer with mental health issues and services to offer help and support are scarce. Haven meets the needs of many young people and children and provides hope that they can have life in abundance.
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Nick Daymond
Haven Advisory Board
Now retired, I spent my entire teaching career in Hertfordshire schools. As a headteacher, I became ever more aware of the terrible toll that poor mental health was taking on increasing numbers of students. I am greatly heartened by The Haven's course content and the very positive feedback from young people, their parents and teachers.
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Ruth Bennett
Haven Advisory Board
I’m a mum, youth worker and coach and have been a cheerleader of The Haven from the sidelines for years. I'm so privileged to now be able to support more intentionally as an Advisory Board member. I love The Haven as it is a very practical support for teenagers as they navigate life and all its challenges.
My working life as a coach and trainer means I’m all about hearing people and helping them think. People say I do this with fringy curiosity challenge and warmth. And having spent 18 years before this in youth work and Senior Leadership means I have some different perspectives to offer when it’s needed.
I live in Harpenden with my two teenage + children and love a good challenge, although since hanging up my running shoes, I’m looking for a new one…?
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Lizzie Plummer
Haven Advisory Board
Join the Team
Board of Advisors
We are seeking new members for the Board of Advisors for The Haven. The Board works closely with the Haven Director to develop strategies for expanding the work of The Haven and ensuring that our growth is undertaken in a financially responsible manner. Find out more here