Meet our volunteers

Our community thrives on meaningful connections. Find out more about our volunteers and staff who will be supporting you at our events.

Our volunteers

Here at Down’s Syndrome Manchester, we truly value our volunteers. Because we offer personalised, stage-by-stage support to our members throughout their lives, we ensure our volunteers receive the training and guidance they need to feel confident and prepared. Our volunteers love being part of our community and they can’t wait to meet you!

Danielle

Volunteer

I’m a teaching assistant from Manchester who loves reading, music, travelling, and spending time with my cats. I’m proud to volunteer with such a caring and inclusive charity and love supporting young people to thrive in a fun, welcoming environment.

Izzy

Volunteer

I work in a creative design agency and am excited to bring my energy and positivity to the Chatterbox team, while learning more about speech and language development. Volunteering with Down’s Syndrome Manchester gives me the chance to be part of something meaningful, joyful, and inclusive.

Rachel

Volunteer

With a background in psychology and education, I volunteer at Chatterbox because I love seeing the confidence, joy, and connection it brings to families and children. I’m passionate about supporting inclusive learning and feel lucky to be part of such a caring and inspiring community.

Our staff

Esther Whitaker

Chief Executive Officer

Esther leads the charity, and is responsible for making sure we’re working towards our vision of a more inclusive world for people with Down’s syndrome. She’s a mum to two girls, and is passionate about celebrating the unique value each person brings to our communities.

Favourite food Chips

Favourite film Wicked

Where will you see me? As CEO, I love popping into as many events as I can. It’s a wonderful way to meet our members, see the amazing work happening, and join in the fun. I’m always so excited when I have one of our events in the diary! I have an open door policy so do let me know if you fancy a cuppa at the office and I am on what’s app too if you ever need to reach out – please do!

Amy Town

Fundraising Manager

Amy leads on our fundraising and external communications – ensuring that members’ voices shape our public messaging and fundraising approach. Amy is passionate about equity and inclusion, and creating a world where differences are celebrated.

Favourite food Thai or Vietnamese

Favourite film Santa Claus the Movie

Where will you see me? As Fundraising Manager, you may see me with our partners and funders at events like Chatterbox, and I’ll pop in to help at our events. I’m on WhatsApp and email for any chats about fundraising, or sharing your stories and wow moments on our website and social media.

Susan Macdonald

Programme Manager: Events and Volunteer Coordination

Events and Volunteer Coordination Susan leads our programme planning and volunteer management. With vast experience in live events and a personal connection as a mum to a child with Down’s syndrome, she aims to create an ambitious and inclusive programme that brings joy and connection to all our members.

Favourite food Tapas

Favourite film Pretty Woman

Where will you see me? As Programme Manager you will definitely find me at Chatterbox, it’s my favourite day of the month as I get to catch up with so many of our members, and meet new ones! I also regularly check in at social events of all ages.

Emma Goswell

Programme Manager: Events and Volunteer Coordination

Emma leads our programme planning and volunteer management. As a parent to Niamh and long-time member of the DSM community, she’s seen first-hand the power of connection, which is why she’s so passionate about creating inclusive, joyful events and supporting our amazing volunteers.

Favourite food Laksa (Thai noodle soup – the spicier the better!)

Favourite film Back to the Future

Where will you see me? You’ll find me at some of the socials especially over 17’s and at our Speak up group. You’ll also see me at Chatterbox every month and I’ll be there if there’s any excuse to have a party!

Suzi Lindsay

Family Support Worker

As a parent to Jasper, who has Down’s syndrome, Suzi knows how important it is to feel understood and supported — and she’s proud to help other families find the guidance and connection they deserve. With a background in education and SEND, Suzi is here to listen, empower, and walk alongside families as they navigate their own unique journeys.

Favourite food Chinese food

Favourite film The Holiday

Where will you see me? As Family Support Worker, I often visit Chatterbox (depending on my children’s extra curricular activities!) and am always available on What’s app for a chat or to book a longer appointment.

Kayleigh Howarth

Finance & Admin Assistant

With over 15 years’ experience in finance, Kayleigh brings her skills to a charity that means so much to her personally as a mum to two boys, one of whom has Down’s syndrome. She’s passionate about helping the charity run smoothly behind the scenes, so it can continue to offer a warm, inclusive space for every family.

Favourite food Chinese food – I LOVE sweet and sour! And prawn toast!

Favourite film Save the Last Dance

Where will you see me? Normally hiding in a spreadsheet making the numbers behave, I’m working my way out from behind the spreadsheets… so expect to see me popping up at events soon!