Meet the Team

Julie Astley

Chief Officer

I have worked in a variety of roles within community Development for the public, private and voluntary sector across Blackburn with Darwen for over 30 years. In 2013 I started at Sliding Doors initially in a voluntary capacity but following our successful bid for the Peoples Project funding I gave up my job at a local charity and spent all my time at Sliding Doors and this turned out to be the best decision I have ever made. It is amazing to see how Sliding Doors has grown to what it is today, this is down to the great people who attend and our wonderful team of staff and volunteers. I love to spend my spare time walking my dogs, spending time with family and friends, going to the gym and the pub! and visiting my daughter and grandchildren in Australia.

Carol Turnbull

Project Officer

I have worked in the community for over 20 years working with people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures. I have worked for Sliding Doors for 4 years and thoroughly enjoy my role in providing social activities for our users in a safe and happy place. I am married with 2 children and 3 grandchildren and when I am not working, I like to spend time with my family, socialising and going on holiday.

Margaret Pemberton

Project Support Worker

I have worked across different settings for over 20 years working with all age groups, in recent years I worked in Children’s centre, nurseries and schools. I enjoy my job at Sliding Doors working with vulnerable people gives me a great sense of job satisfaction, I love to see them enjoying themselves and engaging in activities. I enjoy my free time gong on holiday and sending with my family especially my grandchildren and Great Grandchildren

Mark Hilton

Treasurer

Mark has been involved in Sliding Doors, since it was founded in 2013. He has over 40 years’ experience of working in communities and with young people, including 12 years as head of Community Development in BwD.

As well as supporting the event at The Blues bar each week, he also acts as the charity’s Treasurer