Wendy Hodgson

Service Manager

Wendy took up her post with Outpost in January 2011 to lead the strategic and operational management and development of the project.

She has over 20 years wide ranging experience working in the Public Sector, in Housing, Community Services, Education, Economic Development, and Regeneration.

She has experience of volunteering in the region as Chair of management committees and parents forums, and has also served as a school governor for local primary and secondary schools since 2003.

Immediately prior to joining the team at Outpost, Wendy was employed in developing the Housing Employment Network Compact and group in Northumberland.

Wendy passionately believes that diversity and inclusion is a fundamental consideration in every aspect of her work and daily life, and is committed to championing the rights, interests and needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender young people and specifically their housing support needs. 

Wendy is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Housing, having gained her professional qualification in 1994.

Graeme Sawyers

Project Worker

Graeme supports the young men who access the project.  He works with them from their initial contact with Outpost through to them living independently; sometimes this is right up until their 26th birthday. 
 
Graeme joined the Outpost Housing Project in January 2009. Graeme brings with him over 10 years of experience in a supporting role, gained whilst working for organisations such as Tyneside Mind and Mental Health Concern. Graeme loves to travel, enjoys spending time with family and friends, and also commutes on a regular basis to see his partner who lives in London.

Dawn Gascoigne

Project Worker

Dawn supports the young women who access the project.  She works with them from their initial contact with Outpost through to them living independently, sometimes this is right up until their 26th birthday. 

Dawn is a qualified social worker and is entering her fourth and final year of a post graduate Diploma in Psychotherapy with children and young people. She also volunteers her counselling services to children at a local primary school and at Washington Mind. She lives with her female civil partner, has been part of the North East LGBT community for over 20 years and is committed to working towards a future where her role is no longer needed.

Heather  Witham

Project Administrator

Heather has worked for the Outpost Housing Project since 2005, doing all the 'back-room' admin and day to day finances. She is also responsible for updating the website.

In her spare time she likes walking and rock climbing and has recently completed Level 3 in Counselling Skills.