"Field Lane has consistently demonstrated its commitment to helping people live with dignity, independence and choice."

We recently met up with another of our new trustees, Funbi Matthew, and asked her about joining the Field Lane Board of Trustees.

How long have you been a Trustee for Field Lane?

I joined the Board of Trustees in February 2026. Although I am still in the early stages of my trustee journey at Field Lane, I have already attended Board and Quality & Development Committee meetings, which have given me valuable insight. What has stood out to me is the breadth of experience across the Board and the inclusive way discussions are conducted. I look forward to contributing my expertise in organisational development, people strategy, equality, diversity and inclusion, and governance.

Why did you choose Field Lane as the charity you wanted to get involved with?

I chose Field Lane because its values resonate strongly with my own. As a Christian charity with a long and distinguished history of supporting adults with learning disabilities and vulnerable families, Field Lane has consistently demonstrated its commitment to helping people live with dignity, independence and choice. I believe everyone deserves to be valued, supported and treated with dignity and respect. Becoming a trustee gives me the opportunity to contribute my professional experience to help strengthen the organisation and support its long-term vision. It is a privilege to serve alongside colleagues who are equally committed to making a meaningful difference to people’s lives.

What has surprised you most about working with Field Lane?

I have been genuinely impressed by the quality of care delivered across Field Lane’s services and by the warmth, professionalism and commitment of the staff I have met during my visits. I have also been encouraged by the way the Board and Executive team work together. Meetings are well organised, start and finish on time, and create space for everyone to contribute. Decisions are made thoughtfully, with healthy challenge, collaboration and a clear focus on achieving the best outcomes for the people Field Lane supports.

What do you wish other people knew about Field Lane?

I wish more people knew that Field Lane is a Christian charity that warmly welcomes and supports people from all backgrounds, faiths and beliefs. Its values of dignity, compassion and respect are reflected in the way it supports adults with learning disabilities and vulnerable families. I also wish more people understood the difference they can make by supporting Field Lane. Whether through donations, volunteering, partnerships or simply raising awareness, every contribution helps transform lives and enables more people to live with greater independence, confidence and hope.

What is your hope for the future of Field Lane, its clients and its staff?

My hope is that Field Lane continues to grow as a financially sustainable and widely recognised Christian charity, enabling it to support even more people through its services and accommodation. I also hope Field Lane continues to be recognised as an employer of choice, where staff feel valued, supported and empowered to thrive. Ultimately, I hope every person who accesses Field Lane’s services experiences outstanding care, compassion and opportunities to live with dignity, independence and choice. As a Trustee, I look forward to playing my part in helping Field Lane build on its rich heritage while continuing to innovate and respond to the changing needs of the communities it serves. I believe strong organisations are built by putting people at the heart of everything they do. My hope is that Field Lane continues to demonstrate that compassionate, inclusive and purpose-driven organisations can transform lives for the people they support, the staff who work and the communities they serve.