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The Backup Team

Maura Jackson


CEO

Started work at Backup in 2012 but previously worked here as a support worker from 1997 - 1999. “I love what I do, who I do it with and for. I can see the difference it’s making to young people who are homeless and to my colleagues. I am proud Backup is part of the Bolton community and helping those most in need.”

James Haigh


Director of Services

Started working at Backup in 2023, bringing experience of leading support services and community projects in housing and social care. “I’m really passionate about delivering life changing support that builds young people’s life skills to be able to thrive through challenging times”

Paulette Campbell


Director of Business

Started work at Backup in 2019. “It’s corny, but it’s true – I want to make a difference and I am really, really lucky to work in an organisation where every other person feels exactly the same way.”

Laura Pendlebury


Director of Income and Partnerships

Started working at Backup in 2023 and is driven by a passion to make a difference. After a career of over 20 years in the Corporate world, changed sectors to put to good use all the experience she has gained in sales, strategy and relationship building to increase partnerships and income for a charity. Laura will align BACKUP with businesses that also want to make a difference in our community by fulfilling their CSR. ‘It’s a privilege to be a part of changing young people’s lives, they are so brave and resilient and deserve to live happier, safer and independently’.

Debbie Whewell


PFD Project Manager

Started work for Backup in 2018 managing PFD, Lucas and now Senior Project Manager. “BACKUP is a fantastic place to work. The charity is very person centred and the passion from staff is amazing.”

Alison Hunt


Lucas Project Manager

Started at Backup as a bank worker in 2010, then support worker in 2013 and then promoted to Deputy Manager in 2015. “I enjoy every aspect of my role at Backup. I am so lucky that on a daily basis I get to see the difference we make to Young People’s lives. The Young People are shown by the whole organisation constantly that; they are important, we care and they matter. I really do love my job.”

Diane Eckersley


Chances Manager

Started work at Backup in 2005 and was a support worker, got promoted to Deputy manager in 2015 and is now manager for Chances. “Working at Backup enables me to make a difference, I see young people reach their potential and be the best version of themselves they can be. I love it!!”

Sam Fletcher


Loft House Manager

As an ex service user of Backup, I love working here and being part of supporting the young people to live happy and independent lives, just like Backup did for me.

Beccs Evans


Outreach Manager

Started work at Backup in 2000 as a support worker and became a team leader then Manager in 2012. “I have worked at Backup for the past 20 years and the strength and determination of the young people, together with the creativity and commitment from staff never cease to amaze me. I am proud to work for such a supportive and empowering organisation.

Jay Riddle


REDDS Place Manager

Jay started his journey with Backup in 2019. "I am proud to be part of a forward-thinking organisation, which is undeterred by the barriers associated with supporting young people who have had adverse childhood experiences.”

Jennie Hockey


Business Support Manager

Started work at Backup in 2022. “Everyone in this organisation is passionate about supporting young people to achieve their potential and working towards a common goal. My colleagues have been supportive and welcoming since day one and the respect and value we place in each other is the core of the organisation.”

Victoria Defraeye


Lucas Deputy Manager

Started work at Backup in 2018 to manage Chances and is now at PFD. ‘It’s a privilege to support young people in our projects at Backup. At a time in their lives when the right support can help a young person to build their confidence, realise their potential and feel that they matter.’

Claire Lindsay


Outreach Deputy Manager

Was a resident at Backup back in 1997 and then returned as a student during her degree in 2020 on placement. Once qualified Claire became an employee in 2012 first at Castle house then in outreach. This year 2023 Claire was appointed deputy manager of the Outreach team. "Backup northwest make a huge difference to young people’s lives and it is more than just a job every day I am inspired by the young people’s resilience to overcome life’s challenges. It is such a privilege to be part of their journey to watch them flourish and grow and to see them leaving us fully independent”

Our Awards

Our Events

Every year Backup delivers multiple events for fundraising. Each one is designed to raise awareness and much needed money to support young people who are homeless. Annually we have our core events; Gala Ball, Golf Day and Ladies Lunch. We also have other events that are different each year so that we can have a wider appeal to all.

Fundraising and Events

Back Up North West's cartoon character called Charlie