The existing CEO has been a part of WAITS since its inception in 1993, firstly as a volunteer, then as a community organiser before settling into the management of the Charity.

She knows the value of supporting women in crisis and creating avenues for women to become active citizens participating in all aspects of society. This is viewed as the key to having an equal and justice society.

The CEO's role at WAITS is to oversee the development of the charity ensuring that it has the staff and resources to support our clients.

The CEO also represent WAITS and women at strategic forums in Birmingham and also at a regional and national level.

This team member provides high-level administrative and strategic support to ensure the effective running of the organisation.

The role manages complex scheduling, coordinates internal and external communications, and supports governance processes including Board engagement and reporting.

Acting as a key liaison across teams and stakeholders, the Executive Assistant helps maintain organisational efficiency and alignment with WAITS’ strategic priorities.

This role requires discretion, strong organisational skills, and the ability to work in a fast paced environment supporting leadership in delivering impactful services.

This team member is responsible for empowering women with lived experience to influence systems, policies, and services that will affect their lives.

The role leads on the development and delivery of community organising initiatives, including the SEEKERS Board, supporting women to build confidence, leadership skills, and collective voice.

Working collaboratively with internal teams and external partners, the postholder ensures that lived experience informs organisational practice and wider advocacy.

The role is central to driving social change, amplifying underrepresented voices, and strengthening community-led solutions to domestic abuse.

This team member oversees the quality, consistency, and development of frontline service delivery across WAITS.

This role ensures that all interventions are trauma-informed, person-centred, and aligned with best practice and safeguarding standards.

The Practice Lead provides professional guidance, case oversight, and reflective supervision to staff, supporting continuous improvement and learning.

They play a key role in developing policies, procedures, and training that enhance service effectiveness.

By maintaining high standards of practice, the role ensures women receive safe, responsive, and empowering support tailored to their individual needs.

This team provides direct, holistic support to women experiencing or recovering from domestic abuse.

The roles includes risk assessment, safety planning, advocacy, and emotional support, enabling women to make informed decisions and rebuild their independence.

Workers collaborate with statutory and community services to address a range of needs, including housing, legal processes, health, and wellbeing.

Through a trauma-informed and client-centred approach, they empower women to navigate complex systems, reduce risk, and work towards long-term safety and stability.

This team member is responsible for the overall management and delivery of safe accommodation services for women fleeing domestic abuse.

This includes overseeing day-to-day operations, staff supervision, safeguarding, and compliance with housing and support standards. The role ensures that the refuge provides a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where women can begin their recovery journey.

Working closely with internal teams and external agencies, the Refuge Manager ensures high quality service delivery, effective risk management, and continuous improvement in line with our organisational values and also our strategic objectives.

This team provides practical and emotional support to women and families living within WAITS refuge accommodation.

The role focuses on ensuring safety, stability, and wellbeing through risk management, support planning, and day-to-day assistance.

Workers help residents access services, including housing, legal advice, health care, and education, supporting their transition towards independent living.

Using a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, Refuge Support Workers create a supportive environment that actively promotes recovery, resilience, and long-term positive outcomes.

This team provides dedicated support to women transitioning from refuge or crisis situations into independent living within the community, with a focus on those with an offending background or at risk of offending behaviours.

Working as part of the Community Integration Project, the role promotes stability, confidence, and long-term independence.

Support includes assistance with housing, benefits, managing tenancies, and connecting with local services.

Using a trauma-informed and person-centred approach, Resettlement Support Workers empower women to rebuild their lives, reduce reoffending, and develop positive futures.

Deirdre Lande LaBassiere - Chair

Appointed January 2022
Corporate Governance & Information, Governance Consultant & Trainer at Central Consultancy & Training, and at The Governance Forum.

Sally Bateman - Treasurer

Appointed November 2020

Involved with WAITS since the charities inception with a background in audit and finance. Based at the Community Resource and Information Centre for many years, providing bookkeeping support to grassroots community organisations.

Trustees

Eneis Braham

Owner of Estate Planning Solutions, businesswomen, background in charity fundraising through events.

Karen Bailey

Principal Solicitor at Bailey Wright & Co, Human Resources / Equality & Diversity Director at Birmingham Law Society.