Meet the team

We are a small and friendly team of enthusiastic fundraisers passionate about raising as much money as possible to fund pioneering research and vital services.

During these uncertain times, we are working remotely whenever possible and so unfortunately it is unlikely that we will be able to answer our fundraising office telephone number (01280 815900). To reach our team, please either email us or call us using the individual contact details below.

Deborah Laing

Head of Fundraising
deborah.laing@RetinaUK.org.uk
07841 004564

I head up the team, formulate our overall strategy and secure some of our more substantial funding for research and services. I manage our relationships with the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring that we work together in an ethical and transparent way to achieve the very best outcomes for our community. I also look after our appeals and mailings, including the Christmas raffle and the Big Give Christmas Challenge, raising income from the wonderful supporters who give so generously every year. I’ve worked as a fundraiser for many years now, and I love being part of a charity that’s so focused on creating real change.

Image shows a photo of Simon. He is wearing a blue Retina UK top. There is a sign in the background which reads 'Retina UK - Virgin Money London Marathon 2021 post-race reception'.

Simon Taylor

Community and Events Fundraising Manager
simon.taylor@RetinaUK.org.uk
07736 925174

I’m here to help any of our supporters who want to fundraise in their community. Whether you’re thinking of taking on a challenge or want to pull something together with your family and friends, get in touch and I’ll be happy to support you to make your fundraising a success. I’ve worked in fundraising for eight years, helping everyone from families and volunteer groups to community clubs and corporates. I look forward to helping you achieve your goal for Retina UK!

Alice Capper

Alice Capper

Trusts and Major Gifts Officer
alice.capper@RetinaUK.org.uk
07841 481423

My role involves several different aspects of fundraising. I look after our portfolio of charitable trust supporters; submitting applications and providing reports on the activities their grants have funded. I am passionate about providing excellent supporter care to everyone who supports the charity with significant donations, ensuring that they are able to see the long-term impacts of their generosity. I also assist with our fundraising appeals, help people to make regular donations towards our work, and manage the administration of gifts left to Retina UK in supporters’ Wills. I joined Retina UK in 2017 and enjoy being part of a small team working to make a big difference.

Fiona Leahy

Corporate Partnerships Officer
fiona.leahy@RetinaUK.org.uk
07736 958207

My role is to maintain and develop effective relationships with our existing corporate partners, as well as researching new prospective supporters to expand our network.

I explore and develop opportunities to grow our income, whilst facilitating ways for our partners to fulfil their corporate social responsibility requirements and engage in employee fundraising and volunteering.