Our team
Our team is made up of prison leavers in long-term recovery from addiction. Our past experiences of the criminal justice system give us a different perspective on the needs of those leaving prison today. Each member shares an unrivalled passion for helping people on release from custody.
David Dunn
Founder and CEO
Released from prison in 2022, David founded Release Mates after developing a desire to help others on a drug and alcohol recovery unit in custody.
David is responsible for the overall running of Release Mates including fundraising, governance, and strategy.
In his spare time, David is an avid golfer who enjoys making up lost time with his family.
Stacey Nicholson
Director and Service Manager
Stacey joined the Release Mates team in early 2023 and immediately made a positive impact on the delivery of the service.
Stacey manages the team and the service whilst also contributing to board level decisions
Stacey is passionate about her own recovery from addiction and uses this to help others in her own time.
Simon Griffiths
Release Coach
Simon joined Release Mates in 2023 as a volunteer and progressed through the ranks to becoming an employee. Simon is passionate and determined in his approach to supporting people leaving prison. His own journey from prison to rehabilitation is a source of inspiration to many.
In his downtime, Simon is a sports fanatic. He enjoys following his beloved Manchester United and is often found showing off his own footballing and boxing skills across Lancashire.
Matthew Hampton
Release Coach
After leaving prison in 2023, Matthew was reunited with his former cellmate, David Dunn, when he began volunteering with Release Mates. Matthew's approachable nature and methodical thinking make him a valuable asset to the team.
An avid Manchester City fan, Matthew enjoys playing sport and enjoyed victory in his debut fight at a charity boxing event.
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