Richard Wightman
Richard has been involved with the charity as one of its three founders and has chaired UnityMK since its inception in 2011. He recognised there was a growing problem with homelessness in Milton Keynes around 2010 and was initially involved in engaging a host of churches each to provide overnight accommodation one night a week.
He holds an MA from Oxford University and an MBA from London Business School, and while retired from paid employment, volunteers with a number of charities, is actively involved in a local church, and looks after his grandchildren two days a week.
Emily Desborough
Emily joined the board of UnityMK in August 2021, as she wanted to make a difference in the city she calls home. She is an experienced fundraising leader with over 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector. Emily is currently Director of Fundraising at an international charity and has a MSc in Marketing and Fundraising from Bayes Business School, University of London.
Linda Cherrington
Linda joined the Board in 2021 after being inspired by the work of UnityMK and the positive impact this can have on so many people’s lives. She wanted to share her knowledge and skills to support the ongoing delivery of services and to be part of the 5-year strategic development plan. Linda is a chartered accountant working predominately been within the NFP sector including local and national charities, the NHS and currently within the social housing sector.
Dave Morris
Dave joined the Board in April 2024 after being invited to become a trustee of UnityMK. Having long admired the charity’s work, he felt his lifetime of business and people-focused experience could make a valuable contribution.
He has founded and run several SMEs, some of which have grown to achieve a global reach, ranging from specialist engineering companies to a golf ball manufacturing business and a dairy farm. In addition, he served as a church pastor for seven years. A common thread across these roles has been the ability to work with people, exchange and develop ideas, and see them through to action, all of which inform his role as a trustee.
Pete Lightfoot
Pete joined the Board in 2025 after previously supporting UnityMK through the CEO Sleepout and championing its work as a councillor on Central Milton Keynes Town Council. With over 35 years of experience in the housing sector, he wanted to share his knowledge and expertise to support the charity’s vital work in the local community.
