Council Members
Council Members
Dr Mary Edmonds
Deputy Dean for Practice Learning and Simulation, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Social Care at Anglia Ruskin University
Mary has worked in partnership with practice partners to champion innovative practice learning experiences. These include simulated practice learning, a primary care digital placement, student per shift approach and inter-professional Samaritans placements. Innovations that have received national and regional recognition.
Mary is leading a pilot ‘destination pathway’ which provides pre-registration nursing students with placements in primary, community and social care. This pathway supports the ambition to bring care closer to home and provide a sustainable workforce.
Charlene Waldron
Clinical Lead Nurse at Holmwood House
Charlene Waldron, Clinical Lead Nurse, brings over 18 years of nursing experience to her role. Charlene trained locally at the University of East Anglia, earning a Diploma in Adult Nursing, and has since worked across diverse clinical environments, including surgical wards, day surgery units, and community care.
Her passion lies in championing the vital role of nursing in social care. Over the years, Charlene has contributed her expertise to nursing homes specialising in palliative care, multiple sclerosis, and care for young adults with head injuries. She is a proud member of the Nursing in Social Care Advisory Board.
Charlene has just completed her Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management, which reflects her commitment to continuous growth. She has also taken part in impactful initiatives, including Teaching and Learning in Care Homes, reinforcing her proactive approach to education and quality improvement.
Her leadership style is person-centred and collaborative, focusing on compassionate care and empowering her team to deliver the highest standards.
Helen Cumbers nee Wright
Norfolk Care Careers Team
Adult social care nursing is often overlooked, yet it plays a vital role in the wellbeing and dignity of those we support. I’m proud to be part of a network that values and elevates this essential profession.
With a CIPD qualification and a background in public services, I transitioned into the adult social care sector five years ago. Since then, I’ve been driven by a deep passion to help others recognise the transformative impact that high-quality nursing brings — not just to individuals, but to entire communities.
Our sector is rich with opportunity: from the uniqueness of each care setting to the meaningful relationships built between professionals and those they support. There are clear career pathways, diverse roles, and a chance to truly make a difference. However, we face real challenges — particularly around the talent pipeline and future workforce sustainability. That’s why it’s more important than ever to shine a light on the value of social care nursing, and to create space for innovation, recognition, and growth.
Deborah Marquis
Registered Nurse Manager - Care 24/7
Deborah Marquis is the CQC Registered Nurse Manager at Care 24-7 Ltd, bringing over a decade of expertise in nursing, clinical leadership, and quality assurance. Specialising in palliative care and risk assessment, she leads teams to deliver compassionate, compliant, and outcome-focused care.
Her previous roles include Interim Management, Registered Manager of various care homes, Clinical Deputy Management, Practice and Community Nursing.
Deborah is a link nurse for pain and palliative care in the Eastern region, a 2025 RCN Congress voting member, a Healthwatch board member for end-of-life care, and an active contributor to the Social Care Nurses Forum.
