Tom Watkins - Head of Wellbeing and Inclusion
Tom provides the strategic leadership for our many wellbeing initiatives at Communities 1st. This includes our involvement with healthy hubs, information, advice and guidance pop-ups, welfare support and our programme of help for migrants. Tom says "Our team's work is focussed on keeping people fit and well physically, mentally, financially and socially. In these difficult times, we're helping our communities address health inequality and enabling them to live a thriving, happy life." Outside of Communities 1st, Tom has been a lifelong active volunteer, a presenter on local radio and is a trained actor.
Nicola O’Neill - Wellbeing Services Manager
Nicola helps people to access local activities, services and support within Hertsmere to improve their health and wellbeing, working primarily from the Community Shop in Leeming Road, Borehamwood. One aim of Nicola's role is to build a more supportive, inclusive and resilient community with strong, collaborative relationships and connections between a range of statutory and voluntary services in the borough.
Isobel Hatfield - Community Wellbeing Coordinator
Isobel acts as an ambassador for Communities 1st at online events and at regional Communities 1st Hubs. She runs three of the six Communities1st Stronger Together Network meetings. She provides a range of support to charities, constituted groups and community interest companies in Hertsmere and St Albans. Isobel also works closely with the St Albans & District council to present information events and to administer their Community Project Fund, advising groups that apply to give them the best chance at success. In the past year, Isobel has hosted eight funding advice surgeries.
Hayley Oates - Community Wellbeing Officer
Hayley helps create a welcoming and supportive environment at the Community Hub in Borehamwood and each of the other community outreach hubs she visits weekly. She provides user-friendly information and signposting services to members of the public, in person, by phone or by email.
Ben Hari – Community Wellbeing Officer
Ben joined the team in 2024 and his role is to provide community support for vulnerable people living in the local area, he is well-trained in using person-centred approaches to ensure that each client receives a service that is unique to their needs and requirements. Ben first began working in health and social care in 2021 and since then he has worked with multiple organizations that provide a wide range of services including forensic mental health, supported living, and working with children.
In his spare time, he goes to Arsenal games and loves playing guitar.
