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Contact the team: 0117 947 9911

Do you want to email us for assistance? Contact: [email protected]

Navigators - Helping you access the support and advice you need

We are listeners, here to help you live the life you choose. Please, get in touch: 0117 947 9911

Who are the WECIL Navigators?

Graphic illustration of a girl in wheelchair speaking on the phone

What we do

Whatever your enquiry, our team of Navigators can signpost and give you support to access the right services for you. We understand that knowing where or how to begin accessing support can be confusing, and some language and policies are complicated – that is why our experienced team is here specifically to help you navigate and understand how WECIL or other organisations may be able to help you.

Every question, issue, frustration or query is valid. We work closely with you to feel supported with what matters to you, and do our best to find practical and realistic solutions.

This could include:

  • Help with filling in a form
  • Feeling lonely, isolated or struggling with your mental health
  • Looking for more opportunities for social interaction
  • Needing financial support and advice (for example debt, accessing health related benefits or emergency grants)
  • Help to understand your care needs and access appropriate care and support
  • Your care needs have changed and you need help and advice to get the support you need
  • Advice around employment or education

A friendly team

Our team of highly experienced Navigators are friendly and approachable, and here to listen to any issues and questions you might have.

Black and white headshot of Lucie

Job title: Head of Community Services 

Hi! I’m Lucie. I’ve worked at WECIL overseeing our Community Department for just over 6 years and have worked in leadership roles within the third sector for over 10 years. I couldn’t be prouder of our Community Team who are so conscientious in helping our community achieve what matters to them. I am passionate about leading services which are people centred and developing partnerships which benefit our community.
I have been Chair of Trustees for another local charity and Youth Centre for 5 years and
recently trained to become a ‘Gig Buddy’ supporting Disabled people to attend
gigs when they might not have the support in place to do so.

Black and white headshot of Mike Harris

Job title: Navigator Coordinator

My name is Mike and I am a Disabled Person. I am Navigator Coordinator here at WECIL. I work both as a navigator and as support to the navigating team. I have been working at WECIL for 11 years, the last 10 specialising in Welfare Benefits, especially Disability Benefits including Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children.

Black and white headshot of Rupa Ray

Job title: Navigator

Hi, my name is Rupa and I have been a Navigator for 2 years. I have lived experience as a Visually Impaired Person and as a carer. When this opportunity came up I felt passionate about supporting people and still do! I love talking to people and getting them the right support. My 20 years in the voluntary sector has taught me a lot.

Black and White Headshot of Thea Coles

Job title: ILP Specialist Navigator

Hi, my name is Thea Coles, and I am the ILP Specialist Navigator.  My role is the Direct Payments Support Line and supporting the ILP/Navigator Teams. I’ve worked in Direct Payments for nearly five years now and I’ve always been passionate about removing barriers people face.  I feel my role helps to facilitate that. In my spare time, I love anything creative and walking in nature.

Black and white headshot of Jemima Alexander

Job title: Navigator

Jemima joined the team at WECIL as a Navigator in early 2022, after previously working with the Independent Living Payments Team on Direct Payments. With a passion for supporting parents and carers, Jemima brings not only professional skills but also her personal lived experience of supporting a Disabled person to her role. This personal connection to WECIL's mission, alongside the organisation's values, made WECIL the perfect fit for her.

In her role as a Navigator, Jemima thrives on the diversity of daily interactions and the continuous learning opportunities it provides. Part of a strong team, she values the collaborative environment where different specialists come together, pooling their knowledge to support Disabled people in living independent lives. The variety of services offered by WECIL enables her to make a real difference in the lives of those she supports.

Jemima's background in counselling, combined with various roles requiring refined communication and listening skills, equips her with the tools necessary to excel as a Navigator. Her ability to connect with people, understand their needs, and find effective solutions is a testament to her professional and personal dedication to her work. Outside of her role at WECIL, Jemima enjoys enriching her life with family and friends, engaging with the outdoors, practicing yoga, participating in a choir, writing, and running. These activities not only provide her with a balanced life but also reflect her holistic approach to wellbeing, which she extends to those she supports through her work at WECIL.

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Testimonials

See how the Navigators have helped users just like you.

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