Staff Profiles

Andrew Parker (Administrator)

I live just outside Oban in a nearby village. I took up the post in early 2021 and am enjoying the diversity of the role so far. Following a long period working in a commercial setting, I wanted to work in an environment that was more about helping the local community and individuals, than merely trying to make a profit for a faceless corporation. Homestart provides an essential service that benefits large numbers of families, supporting them at a time when it is most needed.

I'm a keen exerciser and enjoy walking, football & mountaineering. Following lockdown, it turns out I bake - so, if you're "lucky" you'll occasionally find cookies, brownies a flapjack or a protein ball at the Homestart Lorn office (while stocks last).

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Rebecca Maclennan (Interim Sevice Manager)

Hello, I’m Rebecca and I’m the Interim Service Manager on Mull.

I’ve been with Home-Start Lorn for 3 and a half years starting as a family co-ordinator. Having grown up on Mull and now bringing up my own young family I know firsthand the struggles many families face with island living. The island is a beautiful place to be able to bring it children, but it can also bring challenges and loneliness. Being able to bring families together, supporting their friendships and being able to visit families on a 1:1 basis in their homes are my favourite parts of the job. 

Home-Start is a wonderful charity and I feel lucky to be part of the Lorn team.

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Kirsty Canning (Isle of Mull Family Co-ordinator)

Hi, I’m Kirsty, our new Family Coordinator for Home-Start Lorn/Mull.

I am delighted to be part of such an amazing team and organisation. I am mum to 3 big grown boys and understand the demands and struggles of parenthood 1st hand. I feel honoured to be able to help families, where and when they need it most.

I grew up on this beautiful island, and after raising my family near London, working in nursery and primary school education, supporting children with special educational needs, and teaching clarinet, I happily moved home here, with my boys, a few years ago.

My love for the seashore and hills, makes it the perfect sanctuary. I use seaweed and wildflowers to create seasonings, oils, balms and lotions, to benefit people with their wonderful, healing properties.

I am excited and motivated in this lovely role, and look forward to bringing understanding, practical and emotional support to local families.

 

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Nikki Wasik (Oban Family Co-ordinator)

Hello, I'm Nikki, and I'm delighted to have joined the Home-Start Lorn team as one of the Family Co-ordinators in the Oban office, supporting local families though the ups and downs of parenting. I'm passionate about working with children and families and feel incredibly grateful to be in a role where I can offer encouragement, practical, support and a listening ear when it's needed the most.

I've lived in Oban for almost 10 years and love it here! Prior to this role, I've worked in a variety of areas including Occupational Therapy, Yoga Instructing and Swim Teaching. I have 2 young kids of my own with no family close by so I can understand some of the struggles faced by parents. I love working with people and I'm really enjoying my role in Home-Start and getting to know our wonderful families.

Outside of work, you'll usually find me outdoors - walking at the beach with the kids, doing some yoga or braving a bit of wild swimming when I can.

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Jo Oliver (Oban Group Co-ordinator)

Hi I’m Jo, the new Family group Co-ordinator for Home-Start Lorn.  I’ve spent most of my career teaching Biology in high schools and more recently delivering science outreach in Argyll primary schools with UHI. 

I regularly attend Home-Start groups as a mum myself and I am so excited to work with our wonderful families and develop our group provision even further.

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Saskia Ross (Oban Senior Co-ordinator)

Hi, I’m Saskia, Senior Co-ordinator based in our Oban office.

I have worked for Home-Start Lorn since June 2023 and feel privileged every day to be part of such an incredible organisation. I’m mum to my wonderful son, and I know first-hand that parenthood isn’t always easy. I have a background in childcare and support work, alongside a strong passion for mental health and trauma-informed support.

In my role, I oversee the day-to-day running of Home-Start Lorn in Oban. I work closely with our amazing staff and volunteers to ensure everyone feels supported and valued. I also provide both one-to-one and group support. I’m deeply passionate about helping others and feel honoured to share knowledge, advice, and practical support with parents and carers—helping to give every child the best start in life.

Living in a rural area can sometimes increase feelings of isolation, so supporting families to build connections and friendships is a particularly rewarding part of what we do.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me exploring the local area and beyond with my family and our dogs. I love being outdoors and surrounded by nature.

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Rachel Hathaway (Funding and Development Manager)

Hello, I’m Rachel Hathaway and I joined the team as Funding and Development officer. I am really excited to be working for Home-Start Lorn as it is a charity close to my heart. I have personally experienced the incredible support offered through Home-Start with my own young sons. I firmly believe that raising children ‘takes a village’ and that everyone would benefit from a wee bit of extra help. I am committed to developing the service and reaching more families.

Outside of work my boys keep me very busy, as well as our dog, cat, and three chickens. I love being outside walking, samba drumming, getting creative in the kitchen (I’m a keen foodie), drinking vast volumes of tea, and I am thoroughly enjoying learning Gaelic.