Meet The Team

We have volunteers from all walks of life. With experience from various backgrounds, we can offer our clients tailored support

Partnerships Manager

James Howard-Cofield

47 year old former chef and recruitment consultant.

Father and step-father to a total of six children.

Active musician and spoken word workshop facilitator.

Newly sober following a 30 year history of drug and alcohol use that encompassed periods of street-homelessness through to home-ownership (and back again!)

Enjoys a variety of artistic pursuits.

Currently enjoying living in Dover.

Volunteer & Children & Families Lead

Maria Jago

My name is Maria and I have joined ROARKENT as I have a passion and drive to help others. I myself have been in recovery from active addiction for over 11 years.

Throughout my active addiction, I have been to some dark places that has had a severe impact on my life, I wish there was an organisation like ROARKENT, with like-minded people that could have supported me on my road of recovery.

I am really looking forward to being able to work with family members, especially children that are affected by addiction, and giving them some extra nurture, care and support. I have learnt through my own experiences that addiction effects, not only the person but all those that love that person.

Volunteer & Committee Member

Cliff Tuck

Volunteering with Forward Trust for 9 years

20 years lived experience of opiate addiction

20 years clean time

Forward Connect group facilitator

Peer Mentor

Opiate Pathway

Meet and greets to and from detox, rehab, prisons etc.

Volunteer & Inclusion & Safeguarding Lead

Darren Lacey

I now have over 5 years of abstinence after two decades of substance use. Most of my use was due to my inability to accept my sexuality as a queer man. Now, finally, at 45 years old I mince around with painted nails, shouting about LGBTQ+ rights from the rooftops to anyone that will listen!

I have worked for the Forward Trust for over 3 years and currently am the Inclusion Co-ordinator, supporting LGBTQ+ clients with substance use issues.

I am a keen walker, sea-swimmer, cyclist and baker and reluctant half-marathon runner.

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Volunteer & Communications lead

Calum Smith

Having found recovery last year I quickly recognised the importance of having a community of like minded people around me to help to create a new life.

In previous roles from sales to management and more I've worn many hats and I'm happy doing the same to help out where I can for ROAR.

Our work to bring people together is something I really value and am proud to be a part of!

Volunteer & Treasurer

James Edmondson

I have many years’ experience of addiction, both personally and as a family member, and I’m passionate about building an effective support system that can reach everyone.

ROAR is a part of that, bringing the voice of lived experience to help shape and grow the system in Kent.

I am a 42 year old father of four and I like running, cricket, astrology and Taylor Swift.

Volunteer & Lead for Concerned Others

Carrie Williams

My name is Carrie and I first came into contact with the Forward Trust through my partner who had an alcohol problem.

We did some family therapy and through that I became a volunteer for women’s services and for the Family programme.

I then was asked to come along and do a share from a loved one’s point of view at one of the Roar events and from this I also volunteered to help them too.

I really feel that I needed to give something back to the community and help others who have been in my position or are going through the same thing. I do believe that addiction should not be a stigma and working with people who have lived experience is amazing.

LERO Co-ordinator

Katie Cole

My name is Katie and I am the LERO coordinator.

I am a product of Forward's online treatment programme and I have been in recovery from alcoholism for 3 years.

I have had a lifetime of mental health challenges predominately severe agoraphobia, which thankfully, with support has not stopped me progressing with my recovery and my life.

I am passionate about supporting others recovery and am a peer mentor and volunteer for Forward's Reach out service.

In my spare time I love doing art and craft and adore my fur babies.

Volunteer & Peer Support Lead

Tony Deaville

I am a volunteer for The forward trust and ROAR. I spent 27 years in active addiction. I misused drugs and alcohol and as a result spent time in children's homes, prison and sleeping rough.

I couldn't see a way out.

I found abstinence by working a program. It was pointed out to me that I could not get well on my own and needed help. I had to put my trust into someone else, someone who had been through the process.

I choose to volunteer for ROAR because I want to give back. I have battled with addiction for most of my life and know that without support many people fail. My hope is that by sharing my experience with others I can help those affected to battle theirs.