The National Group on Homeworking closed in November 2008. We can no longer provide advice, information and support to homeworkers.

Staff

Linda Devereux
Director Image of Linda Devereux

Linda was appointed Director in December 1996. She had previously worked as an Outreach Worker in Leeds with the West Yorkshire Homeworking Unit for six years and prior to that she worked on a Homeworking research project in Calderdale for the Yorkshire & Humberside Low Pay Unit for just over 12 months. Linda also has 8 years experience as a homeworker she used to assemble and solder printed circuit boards for an electronics company when her children were young, she understands the many reasons why women take up jobs for local companies which they can do at home.

NGH gives a voice to UK homeworkers through the experiences and case studies and we consult with and work with them, our funding enables homeworkers to participate in consultations with government bodies, MP's and others. Most importantly they can talk about and tell others about their real work experiences and situations themselves. 

Nesta Holden
Campaigns & Policy Image of Nesta Holden

Born and brought up in Leeds, Nesta spent four years at Edinburgh University studying history. She then worked as a political assistant in York, where she supported elected councillors with policy research, campaigning and press and media work. In her role as campaigns and policy worker at NGH, Nesta works together with politicians, trade unions and other organisations to push for legal changes and a better deal for homeworkers.

I began work for NGH in November 2005 and am determined to put my policy, communications and campaigning skills to good use as we continue to push for better employment rights for homeworkers. 

Catriona Purdy
Caseworker Image of Catriona Purdy

Cat started working for NGH in 1999 as a helpline operator which gave her experience of employment rights and how they relate to homeworkers. When the Caseworker post came up in 2004 she was keen to apply. Cat has been involved in policy work, training and fundraising at NGH, but likes the casework because of the face-to-face nature of the job. A lot of the work she'd done before at NGH has been at a national level.

We are contacted by homeworkers from all sectors, doing both industrial and tele-homework. Queries can range from payment of the national minimum wage to sex discrimination, redundancy and dismissal.

The Casework service is a fairly new initiative for NGH, it is a direct response to the increasing number of calls from homeworkers with queries about their work. Legislation is only meaningful if it is enforced and I feel very strongly that homeworkers should have access to the legal processes through which they can enforce their rights. 

Julian Bedford
Finance Image of Julian Bedford

Julian has worked at NGH since 2001.
He is an expert at dealing with NGH's challenging and constantly changing funding situation.

I hadn't worked in the voluntary sector before I started at NGH, but I've enjoyed the challenge and learned a lot. Most importantly I really feel like I'm doing something to benefit working people. 

Catherine Higgins
Administrations & Membership Services Image of Catherine Higgins

Prior to starting work for NGH in 2005 as their administrative assistant, I spent many years working as a shoemaker. I worked for a variety of clients and as a member of the Leeds based workers Co-op Made To Last Ltd.

My interest in the work of the NGH stems from my experience of the retail and manufacturing industry and as a result I welcome the opportunity to work for an organisation promoting better rights, pay and working conditions for homeworkers.