Meet The Team

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

Events Lead & Volunteer

Ella Pearson

Hey my name is Ella.

After my own experiences with addiction and mental health I found myself very passionate about helping people get well and find recovery.

I believe that everybody needs a helping hand and support to get through.

I have my own project called Dry miles recovery which is a sober-travel blog and delivers sober events in the community this was my inspiration to become the event’s coordinator for ROAR.

I'm also a keen footballer & traveller and I love the ocean

Non-Executive Director (West Kent) & Children & Families Lead

Maria Jago

My name is Maria and I have joined ROAR 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 went to some dark places and that has had a significant impact on my life,

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.

Executive Director of Devlopment

Daisy Ashe

Daisy’s experience with co-occurring conditions, alternative recovery routes, familial addiction and her degree in psychology has been a invaluable addition to the ROAR team. Her dedication to ROARs mission saw her grow from volunteer to executive director in 6 months.

‘I believe everyone, no matter their circumstances should have the chance to live a happy fulfilling life.’

Daisy’s role on the board is to develop service provisions, oversee finance and fundraising, create partnerships with services across Kent and run the face to face programs in Thanet.

Volunteer & Committee Member

Martin

My name is Martin and I'm have been in recovery for 18 months following active addiction spanning 30+ years, on & off.

My addiction lead me to some really dark places and I'm passionate about supporting people to find the light and helping fellow addicts, in finding recovery, however they get there.

There wasn't anything like ROAR, when I first entered treatment many years ago, so I realise now, how important organisations such as ROAR are.

I'm extremely passionate about encouraging people in recovery to have a voice & to use it.

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Volunteer, Comms Lead & Committee Chair

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!

Non-Executive Director & Treasurer

James Edmondson

With years of personal and familial experience with addiction, I am dedicated to creating a robust support system that benefits everyone.

ROAR plays a crucial role in this effort, amplifying the voices of those with lived experiences to enhance and develop the support network in Kent.

As a 42-year-old father of four, I enjoy running, cricket, astrology, and listening to Taylor Swift.

Volunteer & Lead for Concerned Others

Carrie Williams

My name is Carrie, and my journey with drug and alcohol services began when my partner faced an alcohol issue.

After taking part in family therapy, I became a volunteer for women’s services and the Family program.

I was later invited to share my perspective as a loved one at one of the Roar events, which inspired me to volunteer with them as well.

I feel a strong desire to give back to the community. I believe that addiction should not carry a stigma, and working with those whose experience I can relate to is truly rewarding.

Executive Director & LERO Co-ordinator

Katie Cole

My name is Katie and I am the LERO coordinator.

I am a product of an online addiction 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.

Read my story here

Non-Executive Director (East Kent) & Peer Support Lead

Tony Deaville

I have been volunteering for 3 years now 27 years struggling with addiction to drugs and alcohol. This led to time in children's homes, prison, and even living on the streets.

I was once unable to see a way out, but through a structured program, I discovered that I couldn’t recover alone and needed support. Trusting someone who had walked a similar path was vital for my healing.

I chose to volunteer for ROAR to give back to the community. After battling addiction for much of my life, I understand that many individuals struggle without proper support. By sharing my experiences, I hope to inspire and assist others in their journey to recovery.