Worked previously in Operation for an airline British Midland as a trainer, Researcher & Senior Business Analyst travelled extensively looking at airline systems, after redundancy in 2002 subsequent to 23 years of service, Bev set up her own business ‘Lighthouse Children of Excellence’ (LCE) an afterschool club, due to just having a baby in 2002. In May 2003Bev also, became Co- founder of ‘Open Doors Forum’ (ODF) a not-for-profit voluntary organisation which later becoming registered charity in 2006.

 

Continuing her love for community work obtained two degrees in Regeneration & Community Development Foundation Degree and BA (Hons) Applied Social Care, Health & Community Studies. Beverly has a background in Childcare, Sunday School Coordinator, Proprietor of an After School Club, Sendco School Governor for 7years, Youth Worker and Community Mentor both to Children & Young People and various community groups.

 

Beverly has held various voluntary positions; was PTA member (Parent Teacher Association) and sit on numerous boards and groups being vice-Chair of Derby BME Network, co-founder of African Caribbean Partnership, Neighbourhood Watch & Community co-ordinator and also Parent School Governor – having the firm belief of groups coming together in unity.

 

In November 2012 was awarded ‘Community Champion 2012’ by Derby Black History Group (DBHG). In 2016 Winner of Inspirational Woman in the Community sector in Leadership and Guest of Honour at Derbyshire Constabulary Celebration Achievement Awards. 2017 awarded Local Hero from AJN for her work in the community, and again in 2022 Bev was awarded Community Champion by Community Action.

 

With an eye for business Bev along with her husband John also undertake property development. Bev not only has professional experience, but personal experience of the issues that young people face today. Being put down at school by her teachers with low expectation, later to find out that she was dyslexic, went on to graduate with a BA (Hons) at University of Derby. Despite this was on a full-time degree course, self-employed and the running of the charity, persevered and raised her young family notwithstanding her extensive work in the community and her local church.

 

In September 2023, Open Doors Forum was honoured in recognition of great and valuable services to the community by The High Sheriff of Derbyshire an award for activity and contribution in enhancing the life of the community.