“I hope that by raising awareness through Abigail’s Footsteps of the need for better care for bereaved parents we will spare others the trauma we went through.”
Our People
Co-Founders, Chair and Trustees
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David Ward MBE
Co-Founder, CEO & Trustee
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“I first encountered Abigail’s Footsteps in 2015. I feel very privileged to be taking on the role of chair as the charity continues on its incredible journey.”
Susan Robinson
Chair
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“I previously worked with David and Jo in a role I held in an NHS Trust. The Trust received enormous support from the Charity and I was so inspired by the fantastic work it does, I feel honoured to now be asked to work with the Team more directly.”
Lynne Sheridan
Vice Chair & Trustee
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“I was honoured to be asked to be Treasurer of Abigail’s Footsteps Charity. I look forward to working with the team to help the Charity to go from strength to strength. I am delighted to able to offer my skills.”
Neil Peck
Treasurer
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Jack joins the charity as a parent Trustee, offering the board his personal experience after the loss of his daughter Olivia. Jack is also manager of our football team Abigail’s Athletic.
Jack Jeffery
Trustee and Marketing Lead
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“It is a true privilege to be working with such an amazing team at Abigails Footsteps. Their care for bereaved parents is at the heart of all they do and my aim is to contribute my knowledge and skills to the charity’s work.”
Dr. Sue Plummer
Trustee and Education Lead
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Matt was raised in Kent and works as a Partner in a London law firm specialising in litigation. Matt wanted to help Abigail’s achieve its aims and targets to help other parents who experience baby loss. Matt is helping others in memory of his son Jude, who was born sleeping in April 2026.
Matt Champ
Trustee
Office Team
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I strive to make a real difference in our community and to ensure bereaved families feel supported with compassion, dignity and care. In my role, I feel privileged to lead and support our team as Abigail’s Footsteps continues to grow, strengthening our services, building partnerships and expanding the charity’s reach so that more families and professionals can access the help they need. Working for a charity is incredibly rewarding, and I truly believe in the cause and impact of Abigail’s Footsteps.
Faye Hill
General Manager
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Being part of Abigail’s Footsteps allows me to help bereaved families on their fundraising journeys. The incredible challenges undertaken by our fundraisers continually inspire me.
Becky Hopkins
Senior Challenge & Events Fundraising Manager
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I am proud to be part of such a powerful charity making a real difference to bereaved families and healthcare professionals. Supporting them all through our social media and marketing is effective and insightful. I am grateful to work alongside a team dedicated to making a lasting impact every single day.
Kate Harrison
Digital Marketing Manager
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I have been part of Abigail’s Footsteps since its early days, first fundraising in memory of my daughter, Rebecca, to improve support for families after baby loss. Now, as part of the charity team, I am committed to enhancing bereavement care and ensuring the Abi Cooling Cot is available wherever needed. I support families and donors throughout the donation process, recognising that every gift is an act of love that helps create lasting memories and a meaningful legacy.
Alyssa Ely-Cook
Abi Cooling Cot & Family Liaison Coordinator
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I am grateful to be part of this incredible team. Joining Abigail’s Footsteps as a fundraising assistant while completing an apprenticeship is a fantastic way to build practical skills while making a real impact in supporting our fundraisers. I want to ensure every donor feels valued.
Lucy Kemp
Fundraising Assistant
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We are delighted to announce that Lauren has joined the team as a Family Liaison Coordinator. Her role will focus on enhancing the care and support we provide to our families, ensuring their needs are met and their voices are heard throughout their journey with us.
Lauren Stoner-Harris
Family Liaison Coordinator
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I am excited to begin my journey with Abigail’s Footsteps because I am passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others. I look forward to learning from the team, contributing my skills and being part of a charity which provides such valuable support to the community.
Emily Cole
Grants & Trusts Coordinator
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I am delighted to be joining the Team Abigail’s Footsteps, a charity that provides compassionate support to families experiencing the heartbreak of baby loss during their most difficult times. Being part of an organisation that makes such a meaningful difference by offering care, comfort, and hope to grieving families is a privilege and something I am truly proud of.
Natasha Wadhams
Senior Corporate Fundraising Manager
Patron & Vice Presidents
Liz Astor, Baroness Astor
Patron
Liz Astor has been at the forefront of the charity’s work helping bereaved families and educating maternity staff in how to best help everyone who suffers the loss of a baby.
Cheryl Baker
Vice President
“I support Abigail’s Footsteps wholeheartedly and hope I can make some small contribution in helping this charity with it’s very worthwhile goals.”
A Day In The Life of Vice President Cheryl Baker!
Rob Smith
Vice President
Journalist and TV & radio presenter. Rob has been a co-anchor on the BBC South East Today news, he joins the team to support the work we do at Abigails and is committed to making a change.
Julie Etchingham
Vice President
“I became involved with Abigail’s Footsteps after being moved by David and Jo’s heart breaking story of the loss of their daughter, and inspired by their extraordinary efforts to help other families.”
Craig Chalmers
Vice President
“I am really pleased to be a part of the team. I look forward to supporting this work and making a real difference in supporting bereaved families.”
Faryl Smith
Vice President
Faryl is a British soprano who rose to fame after appearing on the second series of the ITV television talent show Britain’s Got Talent in 2008.
Kelly-Marie Stewart
Vice President
Kelly-Marie Stewart is a pioneering actress whose determination and drive won her a role in the Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks.
Victor Ubogu
Vice President
“All children deserve to be loved and respected, and that is true for babies born asleep or soon after birth.” Victor Obogu is a former England international rugby player.
Sian Lloyd
Vice President
“Abigail’s Footsteps is a small charity that punches well above its weight, I am extremely proud to be able to support this wonderful charity.”
