Ashley Community Housing (ACH), a registered housing provider that supports refugees and migrants in the UK, has announced the appointment of Oona Goldsworthy as the new chair of its board. Goldsworthy is well known for her experience in social housing and community development. Before joining ACH, she served as chief executive of Brunelcare, a respected later-living housing and care provider, where she has led since 2019.
Goldsworthy is also involved in several organizations focused on social care and community support. She sits on the boards of the National Care Forum and Care & Support West, co-chairs the Bristol One City Homes Board, and is a trustee at the mental health charity Second Step. Her background highlights a strong commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and improving access to safe, secure housing.
Speaking about her new role, Goldsworthy shared that her personal experience hosting refugees in her own home has shaped her understanding of the challenges newcomers face. She said that having a safe and secure place to call home is a basic human need, and noted that integration and community cohesion must be prioritized, especially during difficult times.
ACH, which is based in Bristol, provides more than just housing. The organization also offers skills training, employment support, and business support programs to help migrants and refugees build independence and long-term stability. Their services are available across Bristol, Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, and Solihull.
Goldsworthy said she has seen firsthand how ACH helps refugees and migrants transition from being granted asylum to building a stable life in a new country. She described this period as one filled with challenges, including adapting to a new culture, finding employment, and establishing community ties. ACH, she said, plays a major role in helping people navigate this journey.
Goldsworthy takes over from Noelle Rumball, director of higher education consultancy Rumball Associates, who previously served as chair. The leadership change took effect at the beginning of October.
ACH was founded in 2008 and has grown steadily over the years. It now employs more than 130 staff members, working to support individuals seeking new opportunities and stronger community belonging in the UK.