Meet the Team

Advocacy Team

We have a committed and very talented team of over 30 advocates, who work throughout Dorset, Bournemouth and Poole. Their role is to be on the side of the person they are supporting, representing their interests and making sure that their rights are respected. It can be complex and technical work, always with a meaningful and respectful relationship at its’ heart. No two advocacy relationships are ever the same. Our advocacy team has an exceptional working knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act, Deprivation of Liberty safeguards, the Care Act and much more. All of our advocates are either working towards, or have achieved, the IAQ qualification in independent advocacy.

Management Team

Our managers have responsibility for:

  • Operations
  • Finance
  • Administration and HR
  • Development

Marty Slade OStJ, MSc, FIstLM, MIHM, FCMI

Chief Executive

Having joined the Royal Army Medical Corps at age 15, Marty served as both soldier and officer retiring after 40 years service in the rank of Colonel. Following this, he was the CEO of two previous large charities (one of them twice!) each providing a wide range of services for those with learning disabilities. Marty also has commercial experience, having worked as the business development director for a company providing global medical support. Marty is passionate about ensuring that the disadvantaged are afforded the best possible support available and is committed to improving the outcomes of all whom we serve.

Lou Ford

Operations Manager

Louise grew up on a farming estate near Winchester and loves everything outdoorsy. Having worked for the NHS before moving into the charity sector in 2019, Louise also started her academic studies late in life, graduating with a BA (Hons) in Business & Management, a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) and progressed to studying a Doctorate (DBA) – 1 year down, 4 to go! Louise really loves working in the charity sector and has a passion for creating sustainable outcomes for disadvantaged individuals with Dorset Advocacy. Louise now lives with her husband in Poole and Cockapoo Frodo, loving life!

Clare Tarling

Business Support Manager

Clare Tarling joined Dorset Advocacy in November 2015. Her background is in supporting people with Learning Disabilities to be self-Advocates. She has a special interest in accessibility, communications and public engagement.

Clare achieved a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) in 2019, which included courses in entrepreneurship, finance, management, strategy and human resources. In her spare time Clare plays the violin, and enjoys running, swimming and generally messing about with her 2 children.