About Us

Who we are: Employment Support Retraining Agency Ltd (ESRA) was founded  in 1980. Based in Redhill, ESRA’s services are available to people with mental health issues who are looking to find or keep work and also to employers who want advice and support in recruiting and retaining valuable staff.

What we do: on average we help 250 to 300 people each year move towards work.  We believe strongly that everyone has a right to work.  We know that, with the right support, work can be a vital part of recovery and of maintaining positive mental health.

Trained advisors: our qualified, experienced  advisors  give structured and impartial advice, with guidance sessions exploring training, employment and in work support options.

Working in partnership: we work closely with local employers and organisations, and are committed to changing the way people see mental health, improving  attitudes and removing stigma.

ESRA’s Directors are:

• Martin Gill (Chair) Past occupation - NHS Director

• Barbara Walker (Deputy Chair) Past occupation - Occupational Therapist

• Derek Thomas (Honorary Treasurer)  Actuary and Financial Adviser

• Megan Aspel (Director) Charity Manager

• Jean Brown (Director) Past occupation - Medical Social Worker

• Lynn Crittenden (Director) Counsellor

• John Grainger (Director) Past occupation - NHS Administrator

• Carole Keith (Director) Vocational Rehabilitation Manager - UNUM Income Protection Provider

• Jane Sherrington (Director)  Consumer Adviser for Mental Health