The Open Centre is managed by a board of Trustees, many of whom have been with us for many years.

Please read the information below to find out more about our trustees.

David Walton – Joint Chair of Trustees

I love human diversity & travelled overland to India in 1972, teaching for 2 years in Varanasi. I have since worked in inner city, multiracial schools in London & Derby, while doing bits of freelance travel journalism. I retired in 2004 & have been an OC Trustee since then.

Bilal Hussain – Joint Chair of Trustees

I joined the Open Centre in 2016. My background is in education and I have always had a keen interest in religious education. Therefore when I became aware of the Open Centre and the incredible work the organisation carried out in enhancing people’s knowledge and understanding of religions, cultures and communities; I knew that I had to become involved. I have been a proud member ever since!

Val Watson –Trustee

I joined The Open Centre Trustees in February 2021. Until very recently, I worked in the Nottingham and Derbyshire based education and voluntary sectors in numerous capacities for over 30 years. I have a keen interest in community based projects and has a passion for social justice and equality. I am an experienced psychotherapist, consultant and coach in independent practice. Amongst many other things my interests include, walking, reading, music, gardening, sport, travelling, cinema, TV, singing and attempting crafts.

Kate McRae – Trustee

I first encountered the OC soon after its inception as a client, a teacher in a Derby school, and continued over many years to bring scores of children to various activities run by the OC. In that time developments and refinements have ensured that the OC continues to meet the needs of teachers, schools, children, our communities and society in innovative and imaginative ways. I believe that work the OC does result in real change and understanding and I have always advocated its value. Being a Trustee is important to me.

Russell Pollard – Trustee – Treasurer

I joined the Board of Trustees in September 2020. The experience that I have brought to the Trustees is from nearly 40 years of experience in Business, Management and Finance, and more latterly in communications and the use of social media.

Gail Whitehead

I joined the Open Centre in January 2024, although I have been associated with them for a number of years as I attend Peartree Road Baptist Church who are the landlords. I spent the last 20 years of my working life in an administrative role for the NHS in the HR and Education departments organising training courses and events. My interests include, country walks with our 2 border collies, gardening and reading.

If you would like to become a trustee of the Open Centre, please contact Sam, the Strategic Lead for more information on manager@derbyopencentre.org

Please see here for our trustee role description and person specification.