About Us

Cat is the founder and driving force behind The Veterans Cottage, bringing together a powerful network of people, services, and opportunities built over the past three years. Through dedication, relationship-building, and a clear vision, she has created a space where veterans feel seen, supported, and valued.

With over 25 years in the recruitment industry, Cat brings a wealth of experience in employment coaching and business development. She has worked with global companies, including supporting organisations entering Asian markets, giving her a strong understanding of career pathways, transition, and sustainable employment.

Passionate about veteran wellbeing, Cat combines her professional expertise with holistic support and coaching, focusing on the mind, body, and purpose. Her work is rooted in the belief that healing and growth come through connection, community, and the right support at the right time.

Her vision is simple but impactful — to create accessible, welcoming spaces where veterans can rebuild confidence, rediscover purpose, and move forward with strength and support around them.

Having served 24 years in a frontline infantry battalion, including seven operational tours in Iraq, Afghanistan, Sierra Leone, Bosnia, and Northern Ireland, Lee reached the rank of Sergeant Major. 

Now, as one of the directors of The Veterans Cottage, he is dedicated to supporting fellow veterans who, like him, may face challenges in Civvy Street. 

His core mission, working alongside our wellbeing team, is to ensure we reach those struggling - financially, mentally, physically, or with housing - so we can support them every step of the way. 

Having personally faced PTSD, Lee is acutely aware of how it affects not only the veteran but their loved ones. 

When a veteran - or their family - cries out for help, it’s vital they receive it swiftly, as we tragically lose too many veterans to suicide. It’s Lee's commitment to ensure no call for help goes unheard.

Gemma joins The Veterans Cottage as a Director, bringing with her a strong military background and a deep understanding of service life.

She served in the 101 (City of London) Engineer Regiment (EOD&S), a specialist unit focused on bomb disposal, IED response, and high-risk search operations. Her time in the military has shaped her resilience, leadership, and commitment to supporting others.

Gemma represents a younger generation of veterans whose voices are often underrepresented. She is passionate about ensuring they are seen, heard, and supported—particularly those navigating the transition from service to civilian life.

Alongside her role as Director, Gemma will be offering peer support and bringing a huge amount of creativity into the space—helping to shape a welcoming, expressive, and safe environment for all who walk through the door.

She is a proud mum to two beautiful girls, and at her core is a kind, genuine person who leads with compassion, understanding, and heart.

Gemma is driven by purpose, connection, and a genuine desire to give back to the veteran community and their families.

Gemma’s words:

“So, so, so honoured to be on board. Not only is it such important work, but the difference we plan to make is going to be absolutely incredible for so many veterans and their families.

Support for veterans is at an all-time low. Promises around mental health support for PTSD aren’t being met, waiting lists are through the roof, homelessness is rising, and the transition out of service isn’t always smooth. And it doesn’t just affect the veterans—it affects their families too.

We are so eager to make a real, positive impact—not just in our community, but to show others how it should be done, and why this work matters so much.”

Bringing a wealth of compassion, experience, and calm presence to her role as wellbeing Officer, Lynette has worked in mental health for many years with the NHS & Mind across Northamptonshire, supporting individuals through some of life’s most challenging moments.

Alongside her clinical background, Lynette is a qualified hypnotherapist, reiki and shamanic drum practitioner. She has extensive experience supporting people affected by alcohol and substance addiction, as well as a wide range of mental and emotional wellbeing needs. 

Lynette is a true asset and her warmth, professionalism, and depth of experience make a meaningful difference to the lives of those she supports.

Neil has been a valued part of our journey since 2023, offering steady guidance and support behind the scenes as a Non-Executive Director. His insight, experience, and calm leadership have played an important role in shaping the direction of our work.

Well known across Northamptonshire, Neil dedicated over 30 years to policing, serving as a Sergeant with Northamptonshire Police and as Secretary for the Police Federation — a role he remains especially proud of. His long-standing commitment to supporting officers and advocating for their wellbeing speaks volumes about his character and values.

Although now officially retired, Neil continues to give back through his ongoing part-time role as a Positive Action Support Officer, where he shares his knowledge and experience to support others within the service.

Neil also holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Police Leadership (2011–2013), bringing a strong academic foundation to complement his practical expertise — an invaluable asset to our team.

Outside of his professional life, Neil has a passion for travel and enjoys exploring new places whenever he can.