About Us
ConGens is a community driven charity led by a dedicated team that works in partnership with community groups and local organisations that are committed to helping people stay active, connected and confident within their local community and beyond. We believe that strong communities are built through meaningful relationships, shared experiences and opportunities that allow people to thrive. Our work focuses on reducing isolation, improving wellbeing and creating inclusive spaces where individuals feel valued and supported.
We deliver a wide range of social, recreational and learning activities, from gentle exercise and digital inclusion to intergenerational projects, cultural programmes and community outings. We also provide culturally appropriate support for Deaf people ensuring our activities are accessible to sign language users.
ConGens has worked with a range of organisations within the statutory and voluntary sector that have included Wolverhampton City Council and the NHS to help extend the reach of service provision and to help ensure more people have access to resources and opportunities that enables them to live more fulfilled lives and become more engaged in their community. These partnerships strengthen our ability to respond to local needs and deliver programmes that make a genuine difference.
Mission Statement
Our aim is to reduce inequalities caused by older age, disability, ethnicity, low income and other social disadvantages. Our mission is to ensure everyone can access the information, opportunities and resources they need to live healthier, more connected and fulfilling lives. We remove barriers, promote equality of opportunity and empower people to participate fully in their communities.
Meet the Team
Trustees
Grace Peddie – Chair
Grace Peddie, Chair, has been closely associated with ConGens since 2014, championing its work within the community and helping shape its direction over the years. She is deeply passionate about supporting older people and ensuring they remain active, valued participants in their communities. Grace also brings extensive experience as a British Sign Language interpreter, a skill that has been instrumental in strengthening our projects for deaf individuals and in bridging the divide between deaf and hearing communities. Her commitment to inclusion, communication, and community empowerment underpins her leadership as Chair and continues to guide ConGens’ mission
Janet Mahay
Janet is one of the founding members of ConGens. As a former panel member of Wolverhampton City Council’s Carer Support Group, she has brought invaluable insight into the challenges faced by unpaid carers and the systems designed to support them. Her lived experience and long-standing commitment to carer advocacy strengthen her role as a trustee, ensuring that the voices of carers remain at the heart of ConGens’ mission. Janet’s perspective helps guide our work with empathy, clarity, and a deep understanding of the realities families face
Judith Aldred
Judith Aldred brings a thoughtful and compassionate voice to ConGens. Living with ME has given her a deep understanding of the barriers people with disabilities can face, and she uses this insight to ensure our activities remain genuinely inclusive and accessible. Judith’s perspective helps us design programmes that are flexible, welcoming, and responsive to a wide range of needs. Her commitment to inclusion strengthens our work and ensures that no one is left behind in our community‑focused mission.
Ann McKen
Ann brings a wealth of care, experience, and community spirit to our board. A proud mother and retired nurse, she has spent many years working closely with adults and young people, delivering activities that help individuals feel more connected, confident, and engaged in their community. Her work has supported young people to grow and help recognise their potential and strive to achieve it. Drawing on her nursing background, Ann is passionate about encouraging people to focus on their health and wellbeing. Her insight and long-standing dedication to community life make her a valued addition to our organisation.
Staff
Ian Peddie Project Coordinator
As Project Coordinator for the charity, Ian spearheads ConGens’ activities with energy, creativity, and a deep commitment to community inclusion. A former local authority community worker, Ian has spent many years collaborating with diverse groups doing remarkable work across the region. These experiences have inspired him to design and deliver a wide range of ConGens activities that promote equality of opportunity for people who are often disadvantaged or overlooked. His approach ensures that everyone—regardless of background or circumstance—can access enriching experiences that many take for granted. Ian’s passion for fairness and community empowerment sits at the heart of ConGens’ programme of work.
Volunteers
We have a small team of volunteers who provide support whenever needed. They are an invaluable asset to the charity, and we truly value their time and commitment. Some assist with specific projects, while others offer routine administrative help when their schedules allow. Whatever the level of their contribution, we deeply appreciate their involvement and the positive difference they make.