Governance
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Want to be a Trustee of Whittington Park Community Centre?
Our community centre is the heart of local life—a place where people connect, learn, grow, and
support one another. As a trustee, you’ll play a vital role in shaping its future, ensuring it remains
inclusive, vibrant, and responsive to the needs of our community.
What Does a Trustee Do?
Trustees are the guardians of our mission and values. They help steer the strategic direction of the
centre, oversee its financial health, and ensure we meet our legal and ethical responsibilities. This
is a governance role—not a day-to-day operational one—but your insights and decisions will have
a lasting impact.
Key responsibilities include:
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Attending trustee meetings (every other month, on Wednesday evenings)
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Reviewing and approving budgets, plans, and policies
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Supporting fundraising and community engagement efforts
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Acting as an ambassador for the centre in the wider community
We ask for a minimum commitment of three hours per month, which includes meeting
attendance and preparation time.
What Skills Do We Need?
We welcome people from all walks of lift. You don’t need prior board experience—just a passion
for community & a willingness to learn. That said, we’re especially keen to hear from people with
skills in:
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Finance or accounting
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Legal or governance
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Fundraising or marketing
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HR or organisational development
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Community engagement or youth work
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Digital transformation or IT
Equally important are soft skills like:
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Good judgment and integrity
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Teamwork and communication
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Strategic thinking
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Commitment to diversity and inclusion
Why Join Us?
Being a trustee is a meaningful way to give back. You’ll help shape a space that brings joy,
support, and opportunity to hundreds of people. You’ll also gain valuable experience in leadership,
governance, and community development.
If you’re ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
admin@whittingtonpca.org.uk 020 7272 1847
Our Trustees
Courtney Shapiro
Chair
Courtney is a local parent and her involvement with WPCA began at our One O’Clock club with her children. She has over 25 years’ experience working within the financial services industries and is currently Global Head of Brands for an international firm. She brings invaluable expertise to our marketing and strategic planning.
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John Purcell
Vice Chair
John’s long involvement with WPCA began when his children used to go to the After School Club. He belongs to the National Guild of Master Craftsman and set up his own carpentry and joinery business in 2008. He uses his knowledge of buildings to give us valuable advice on everything to do with our buildings and our building project.
Jeetendra Solanki
Treasurer
Jeetendra lives locally with his family and has over 20 years experience in the investment banking and financial services industry. He brings extensive experience in financial analysis and financial planning. When not working or volunteering Jeetendra likes to spend his time playing golf, running, travelling and coaching cricket.
Elizabeth Case
Secretary
Liz brings marketing and best practice skills to the board. She has been a parent governor at Yerbury School and is a trustee of Friends of Whittington Park. She is committed to making sure community groups are inclusive and welcoming.
Janet Burgess MBE
Trustee
Janet has lived in Tytherton Road since 1988 and has been involved with the Centre for over 25 years. She is Councillor for Junction Ward and Deputy Leader of the Council. Her role on the Council is to promote health and wellbeing. One of her key aims for the Centre is that it reaches isolated people and offers a welcoming and healthy experience.
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Alison Ruddock
Trustee
Alison has been a supporter of WPCA since the 70’s. She was particularly involved in managing the Centre’s adventure playground in the late 70’s and early 80’s. She lives locally and her children were regular users. She brings valuable experience from her work in local government with children and her roles have included Head of Play Service (Hammersmith and Fulham) and Head of Early Years from 1994-2011 at Islington Council.