My first role in fundraising was with Macmillan Cancer Support based at their Sussex office in Hove. Thanks to their comprehensive training regime I soon found the career that I loved. However, I wanted to help people closer to home and sought a role where I could make a difference in the community where I lived. I started work at Turning Tides (previously known as Worthing Churches Homeless Projects in Worthing initially as Community Fundraiser, but was promoted to PR & Fundraising Manager within 12 months and remained there for 13 years. I was responsible for the rebrand working in partnership with the Chief Executive and over the years grew the fundraising income and fundraising team substantially for the charity. I also over saw the volunteering aspect, increasing the number of volunteers from 150 to over 300. In 2018, I moved to Southampton for personal reasons where I started work with Dentaid.I was very lucky to join Dentaid at an early part of their journey as they expanded their reach across the UK. Their 2 mobile units help those most in need in our society today who are unable to access dental treatment. Personally I have suffered severe toothache in the past and it effects your sleep, your mood and your ability to do anything. I felt that if I could help anyone in this situation to feel better my job would be a good one!I joined the charity as Fundraising Manager in September 2019 and was promoted to Development Manager in April 2020.