Ben Holmes serves as a trustee of The Guiding Light Mental Health Charity with a deep commitment born from his personal journey through 17 years of active addiction. His breakthrough in March 2021 marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one characterised by resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in the possibility of recovery. Ben’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the hope that exists even in the darkest moments. As a trustee, Ben is proud to use his experiences to inspire and support others on their own paths to recovery, reinforcing the message that there is always hope, a solution, and that no one must face their battles alone. His role within the charity allows him to advocate for those struggling with addiction, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to reclaim their lives.
Julie Martin brings a deeply personal and powerful perspective to her role as a trustee of The Guiding Light Mental Health Charity. As an “affected other” for 25 years, Julie’s life was profoundly impacted by her former husband’s gambling addiction and mental health struggles, which led to a tragic and life-altering loss in November 2021. Despite the immense challenges she has faced, Julie has channelled her experiences into advocacy and activism, working tirelessly with Gambling Awareness charities to educate others and push for crucial changes in the laws and regulations surrounding gambling. Julie is proud to serve as a trustee because she believes in the charity’s mission to support individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. She is committed to ensuring that others do not have to endure the pain her family has experienced and is determined to drive meaningful change in the fight against gambling-related harm.
Chris Gilham brings a wealth of personal experience and advocacy to his role as a trustee of The Guiding Light Mental Health Charity. Diagnosed with ADHD just before his 40th birthday, Chris has navigated a long and challenging journey through over 20 years of alcohol dependence and a six-year battle with gambling addiction. His story is one of profound transformation—from hitting rock bottom during a harrowing gambling binge to finding recovery and embracing a new life of self-acceptance and healthy coping mechanisms. Chris is deeply motivated by a desire to support others facing similar struggles, and his work extends far beyond his personal recovery. As a co-founder of the “All Bets Are Off” podcast and Gambling Harm UK, as well as an active participant in various recovery communities, Chris is an enthusiastic advocate for raising awareness of addiction, neurodivergence, and mental health. He is proud to serve as a trustee, where he can continue his work in helping to alleviate the harms of gambling and support those on their journey to recovery.