Debbie Twitchen

Debbie Twitchen works tirelessly to help vulnerable tenants living in fuel and food poverty, and advocates for local people whose voices are generally not heard. Debbie is excellent at holding her landlord to account but always with diplomacy and tact, and balances this with praise where it’s due. Everything Debbie does is driven by a desire to help, and she always goes above and beyond to support tenants and local communities. Debbie represents tenants across the Lewes District in several ways. She heads up a foodbank serving 74 households and chairs a vibrant residents association representing 789 households. She also chairs the Tenants of Lewes District group (TOLD), sits on the Tenant Scrutiny panel, and represents tenants at the Council Cabinet. Debbie approaches all aspects of her work with dedication and fairness, with no political agenda, and champions diversity and a level playing field for all. It’s true to say that she inspires everyone she meets, is a role model for tenant involvement nationally, and also a shining example of people power. In 2022 she received a well-deserved MBE for her dedication and commitment.