Chief Executive

Hollie joined SWA as our CEO in 2021 and has over 22 years experience of working in the domestic abuse and homelessness sectors. Hollie started her career as a support worker in a day centre for homeless people and has developed her leadership career to include working in senior roles within national, regional and local charities/organisations. Hollie holds an MSc in Health and Social Care Leadership, where her dissertation focussed on women’s lived experience of leadership. Hollie sees her role at SWA as an immense privilege to be able to undertake and recognises that working with survivors and families in a specialist domestic abuse charity can make a real difference in people’s lives.

Head of Operations

Janet, a relative newcomer to SWA since September 2022, had an 18-year background in Domestic Abuse Support. Before this, she held various roles, including working as a nanny and selling industrial lighting. Her interest in social care was rekindled after volunteering with Women's Aid in the early 2000s. Janet was deeply moved by the women and children she supported and eventually transitioned to become a front-line support worker, volunteer coordinator, and later a manager. Janet’s journey led her to SWA, where they currently hold the position of Head of Operations. She has undergone social care and leadership training, including Safelives Domestic Abuse Service Managers qualification. Janet finds great fulfilment in her work, considering it an honour to be part of a dedicated team and to empower survivors through her role.

Lead Practitioner

Julie has been with Women's Aid since 1994 and is approaching her 30th year of service. She feels privileged to support women and children escaping domestic abuse and considers her career fulfilling. She praises Sheffield Women's Aid for its impactful specialist services. Julie's work history includes jobs in a bakery, market, and as a nurse for individuals with Learning Difficulties and Mental Health conditions. She joined the youth service, focusing on Teenage Pregnancy groups and outreach to young men. Julie also provided support to women in the sex industry, offering essentials while driving through Sheffield. Her diverse experiences have shaped her into a dedicated advocate for women's well-being.