Emma Sleightholm

As a certified BRAT, I grew up on military bases in both the UK and BAOR during my dad’s service with the Royal Corps of Signals. After leaving home at 18, I studied at the University of Leeds where I completed my LLB Hons in Law and Japanese Studies. I then followed my parents and sister to West Wales where I have lived for the last 25 years. In my early career, I worked for the MOD/QinetiQ at their test and evaluation range in Aberporth. My roles included general administration, data management and HR support to project managers throughout the UK. After redundancy, I moved into
social care, where I supported people living with physical and cognitive disabilities in their own homes. During this time I developed a particular interest in how therapeutic activities can improve physical and mental wellbeing. This led me to study for a PGCert in Dementia with Arts and Activities with the University of Bradford which I completed in 2017.
For the past 4 years I have been a freelance copy writer, creating marketing materials and web copy for business clients across the UK. I also work with a local Community Interest Company which is how I found Woody’s Lodge Penlan. Not long after the site opened in 2020, I came to interview Steve for a news article and instantly knew I wanted to get involved as a volunteer. Everything about the charity resonated with me and you couldn’t meet a better group of people. One year later, I successfully applied for the Admin/Support role and here I am! I’m thrilled to become part of the team here at Penlan and the wider Woody’s Lodge family. I’m looking forward to using my skills and experience to help build vital connections in the community, realise the vision for Penlan Farm and ensure the best possible support for veterans and their families. The charity has already transformed the lives of veterans and emergency services personnel throughout Wales, and I’m really excited about what we can all achieve together going forward.