Lauren qualified as a solicitor in 2002. Her training included areas of Crime, Family, Welfare & Benefits and Personal Injury Law. She is the Principal of a law firm in the London Borough of Brent, specialising in Criminal, Housing Disrepair and Immigration Law, which has been established for 11 years. Lauren herself is an accredited duty solicitor for police stations and Magistrates Courts in the London Boroughs of Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, Westminster, Clerkenwell, Hampstead and Central London; and is a higher rights advocate also representing clients nationally in the Crown Court.
In addition to her role as Principal, Lauren is the Compliance Officer for the practice and the Compliance Officer for Finance & Administration, Risk Management, Complaints/Grievance/Disciplinary; and is the Training/Development/Performance Manager.
Lauren specialises in representing youths and is committed to fair and restorative justice. She works closely on a regular basis with young people, their families, the youth offending team and social services. She is able to engage appropriately with the young people and finds ways to communicate with them to ensure that they have a better understanding of the judicial system; the process they are experiencing and more importantly, educating them to steer clear of criminal activity. She regularly attends youth centres, schools and colleges to advise on stop and search rights and elements of offences such as joint enterprise. She has also sat as an expert panelist on topical discussions relating to youths within the justice system.
Lauren is currently a governor at an independent primary school ranked within the top 10 schools in the United Kingdom. She has an enhanced DBS and has received NSPCC Child Safeguarding training.
With over 25 years of experience, Michael has dedicated his career to supporting children, young people, and families from diverse backgrounds, many of whom have faced extreme challenges, including emotional difficulties and complex behavioural needs. HIs work has been driven by a deep commitment to improving lives through compassionate care, structured support, and collaborative engagement with local authorities, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
Michael has overseen up to 40 community-based houses, supporting 70 service users with tailored care plans that addressed their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. He has extensive experience in developing and implementing individualised support strategies that empower young people to thrive.
Since 2016, Michael has been the Head of Service at Utopia Supported Housing, guiding the organisation from its inception to a well-established service that offers a safe and nurturing environment for those in need. His approach is rooted in holistic care, ensuring that each individual receives the right support to build resilience, independence, and a brighter future.
Beyond his professional work, Michael is passionate about mentorship and personal development. As an FA Level 2 coach, he has combined his love for sports with a commitment to youth empowerment.
With nearly a decade of experience in the police force, David transitioned into the care sector, where he has dedicated almost 20 years to supporting vulnerable individuals. In his current role at Utopia
Supported Housing, he oversees the day-to-day operational functions of the organisation, providing
strategic guidance and support to the Director, Head of Service, managers, and support staff. His
extensive experience ensures the delivery of high-quality care and effective service management across the organisation.
David's responsibilities encompass a broad range of operational and strategic functions, including HR
support, payroll management, and staff training. As a qualified registered trainer in multiple subjects, he plays a key role in the professional development of Utopia Supported Housing’s staff, ensuring they receive high-quality training to enhance their skills and deliver exceptional care and support to our young people.
As Head of Operations, David has played a pivotal role in Utopia’s growth and success. In March 2024, Utopia achieved full registration with Ofsted for its supported accommodation setting. Given his years of dedicated service to the organisation, it was a natural decision to appoint David as the Registered Manager, alongside the Director, as the Responsible Individual. Together, they ensure full compliance with all government and Ofsted regulations, maintaining the highest standards of care and service across the provision.
David's role as Designated Safeguarding Lead, is undertaken with the utmost seriousness and dedication. For him, safeguarding is not just about policies and procedures—it is about fostering a culture of vigilance, trust, and advocacy. HIs extensive experience in social care, alongside his qualifications in safeguarding and child protection, allow him to lead with confidence, ensuring that every young person in our care receives the protection and support they deserve.
David's passion for safeguarding is deeply rooted in his belief that every child and young person should feel safe, valued, and heard. Through continuous training, collaboration with external agencies, and a proactive approach to risk management, he strives to create an environment where safeguarding is not just a requirement but a fundamental principle that guides our daily practice.
Ben joined Utopia in October 2023 as a Team Leader and was completely new to the sector having come from emergency healthcare and wanted a new challenge.
He quickly learned the role and in April of 2024 was promoted to the position of Service Manager. He enjoys getting to know our young people, hearing their stories and helping the team here support them the best way we can.
Following a decade working within the NHS, Jordanah was ready for a change. She still wanted to help people and be in a rewarding position and found an opportunity to support young people in supported accommodation.
As Service Development Manager for Utopia, Jordanah works on various areas within the organisation such as development, Ofsted compliance, health and safety, recruitment, training and referrals.
Diane has over 15 years of experience working with children and young people across a variety of
settings, including primary and secondary schools, alternative provisions, colleges, and residential homes specialising in Harmful Sexual Behaviour (HSB), Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD), and Learning Disabilities (LD). Her diverse experience has provided her with a deep understanding of how different environments can impact children and young people in various ways.
In her previous role as a residential home manager, Diane successfully led her team to achieve a “Good” rating in two consecutive full inspections, demonstrating her commitment to high standards of care and support.
Leah has worked with young children and adults for 12 years in a variety different settings, including nurseries and 4 months at a Texas summer camp for children and adults with various needs/disabilities.
Starting with Utopia as Senior Support staff, Leah has taken the next step in her journey as the newly appointed Deputy Manager for our children's home provision.
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