Our Team
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Dionne Coward
With a strong background in property management, business leadership, and charitable work, I founded our supported living housing company with a clear vision: to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. My journey began in my early twenties when I launched and successfully ran my own recruitment business. There, I gained invaluable hands-on experience in operations, team leadership, and delivering high-quality services. This entrepreneurial foundation enabled me to build and manage a thriving property portfolio alongside my husband—giving me the flexibility to dedicate time to various charitable projects.
Working with a women’s charity profoundly impacted me. I witnessed firsthand the urgent need for safe, stable housing for vulnerable individuals in crisis. That experience lit a fire in me and planted the seed for this company. I realised I could bring together my skills in property, business, and social care to create housing solutions that go beyond providing shelter—offering safety, dignity, and a real opportunity for a better future.
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Mark Coward
Hi, I’m Mark. I’m the Operations Manager at Verto Living, where I help oversee the day-to-day running of the organisation alongside my wife Dionne, who is our Director.
Before Verto, I spent several years working with The Salvation Army and in various community centres, supporting vulnerable people through practical, on-the-ground help. I also bring experience from the property world, having managed my own portfolio for many years — which gives me a solid understanding of both housing and the challenges our clients often face.
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Maria Newberry
With over 21 years of experience working in a hospital setting, particularly caring for trauma victims. I have dedicated my life to supporting others through some of their most challenging moments. My passion has always been rooted in helping people feel seen, heard, and valued.
At Verto, I bring a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to my work, building genuine connections with each client. I strive to create a space where individuals feel supported and respected, no matter their circumstances. It’s an honour to walk alongside our clients on their journey and to contribute in a meaningful way to their wellbeing and sense of self-worth.
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Rianna Hewitt
Hi, I’m Rianna. I’m the Office Manager here at Verto Living, where I oversee the day-to-day running of the admin side and help set up new supported houses.
I’m currently studying Psychology at university, and before joining Verto I worked at Mind, the mental health charity. That experience deepened my passion for supporting people with complex needs and reinforced my belief in the importance of safe, stable housing.
At Verto, I focus on keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes so that our support staff can do what they do best. I love being part of a team that’s truly committed to helping people move forward in life.
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Michelle Chrimes
I spent 20 years working with children, including eight years at Sure Start, supporting vulnerable families through some of the most difficult times in their lives. My role focused on helping them rebuild confidence, strengthen parenting skills, and getting them back on their feet. I’ve always been driven by a desire to help people and make a real difference in their lives.
More recently, I decided to take that passion in a new direction and began working with adults by joining Verto. It’s been an exciting shift, and I’ve already learned so much. I’m committed to continuing my growth so I can offer the best support to my clients as they move forward in their own journeys.
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Michaela Guest
Before joining Verto, I worked across several areas including domestic abuse support, school-based interventions, and drug and alcohol awareness work. I joined Verto because I wanted to be part of a service that takes a hands-on, support-focused approach and actually gets to the root of the issues. I enjoy doing this kind of work because I’m passionate about making a difference in vulnerable women’s and young people’s lives—especially those who feel unheard or overlooked.
Being able to support someone through tough decisions or risky situations and help them feel seen, safe, and supported is what drives me every day
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Jade Williams
Originally, I’m from Grimsby, where I ran my own beauty salon for several years. That experience taught me a lot about working with people from all walks of life and being a good listener — something I’ve brought with me into this new role.
I’m passionate about helping others feel confident and capable, and I’m here to support you however I can as you work towards stability and independence. Whether you need practical help or just someone to talk to, I’ll always do my best to be there.
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Josh Penny
Hi, I’m Josh. Before joining Verto, I worked in mental health support, helping people with conditions like bipolar and schizophrenia. I also spent time working in a care home for the elderly, and before that, I was a bar supervisor — so I’ve always been in people-focused roles.
I enjoy being part of someone’s journey as they get back on their feet and return to a sense of normality. It’s rewarding work, and it means a lot to do it alongside my dad, James, who’s also part of the Verto team.
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James Penny
Hi, I’m James. I first got into support work through personal experience — my daughter has severe mental health needs, and that gave me a deeper understanding of the kind of challenges people face every day. Since then, I’ve worked with individuals with learning difficulties and mental health disabilities, and I’ve found that I have a real strength in listening, understanding, and showing empathy.
I take great satisfaction in helping people move forward and find stability, and it’s even more meaningful to do this work alongside my son Josh, who also works here at Verto.
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Tony Smith
Hi, I’m Tony. I’m the Maintenance Manager at Verto Living, which means I take care of all the practical bits. I’ve done a bit of everything over the years — from carpet fitting to welding, carpentry, and even working as a photographer for six years. That variety has given me the skills (and patience!) to tackle just about any maintenance job that comes my way.
At Verto, I take pride in making sure our houses are looked after properly. When a property is well-kept, it gives our residents a sense of dignity and stability — and that’s something I’m proud to contribute to every day.