OUR TEAM
Taqwa Galpin
Managing Director
In 2020, Taqwa Galpin established In Friendship, drawing from 12 years of dedicated service across diverse private and public care and support organisations. Her profound affinity for older adults catalysed the creation of a premium client-centric home care and support service.
Taqwa's journey encompasses a wide spectrum of roles, from her public service tenure as a Community Support Officer with Thames Valley Police to her impactful involvement in domiciliary care and in-home support. Notably, her recent role as a qualified Dementia Advisor for Dementia Oxfordshire through Age UK has further enriched her expertise.
Embedded within In Friendship's ethos is Taqwa's unwavering passion, wherein every client's well-being is championed through bespoke care. This belief underscores her commitment to crafting a care experience of the highest quality, uniquely tailored to each individual. Taqwa's journey and devotion have seamlessly converged to establish In Friendship as a paragon of client-driven excellence.
John Galpin
Operations Director
John became an integral part of In Friendship, contributing to the business's expansion in Oxfordshire alongside his wife and the company's founder, Taqwa Galpin.
With an extensive professional background spanning more than two decades, John has excelled in client support and business management within the IT sector. His journey encompasses diverse roles, from commencing as a computer hardware engineer with extensive travel along the M4 corridor, to assuming leadership positions in technical operation departments for both small and large IT service providers.
Leveraging his wealth of skills and experiences, John seamlessly translates his expertise into offering back-office operational support to In Friendship. This strategic contribution empowers the team to focus their energies on their primary passion – delivering exceptional support to their valued clients. John's prowess and commitment further bolster In Friendship's capabilities, ensuring a streamlined approach to their mission of enhancing clients' lives.
Amber
Care & Support Worker
Amber brings a wealth of diverse experience in roles centered around interpersonal connections. Her journey began with studies in beautician training after which she transitioned to the hospitality sector. In 2015, Amber became a cornerstone of Witney's community as the local post lady at Royal Mail.
Amidst internal changes and labor disruptions in late 2022, Amber ventured into the estate agency field as a lettings negotiator while caring for her mother coping with severe MS. This period illuminated her true calling – the care industry. Amber's innate aptitude for this realm, combined with her genuine compassion, fuels her role as a dedicated 'people person.'
With a heart attuned to the well-being of others, Amber's alignment with In Friendship underscores her advocacy for impactful caregiving. Her presence serves as a bridge between compassionate care and the enhancement of lives touched by her commitment.
"I realised the care industry is where I as I have a natural aptitude in this area. I am a people person with a caring nature and a genuine interest for the well being of others."
Nicole
Care & Support Worker
Nicole seamlessly integrated into the In Friendship team, having transitioned from a previous role as a care worker at a Witney-based care home. Having embarked on her journey in the care sector at the age of 16, Nicole brings a wealth of experience garnered from years of dedicated service, particularly in supporting individuals with Dementia, an area in which she specialises.
Her extensive background underscores her proficiency in providing care and assistance to those in need. Beyond her professional pursuits, Nicole finds solace in leisurely walks accompanied by her canine companion, cherishing moments spent with her family, and indulging in cinematic experiences. Nicole's professional acumen and genuine dedication to her craft greatly enrich the services we offer at In Friendship. Her commitment to her specialised field and her well-rounded interests reflect her well-rounded character and her valuable contributions to our team.
"Joining in friendship means I can do the job that I love, which is helping people do what they love. My motivation is to make someone’s day or even just to make them smile."
Jo
Care & Support Worker
Jo is an integral member of the In Friendship team. With over two decades of experience as a skilled hairdresser, she made a pivotal career shift towards the care sector to pursue her passion for aiding and empowering individuals.
Jo's intrinsic propensity for providing assistance is a cornerstone of her character. Her innate nurturing disposition fosters immediate rapport with clients, rendering her a cherished asset within our organisation. Jo's presence resonates deeply, establishing an instant connection with our valued clientele. We hold deep appreciation for Jo's contributions to our team, recognising her as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of those we serve. Her seamless alignment with our mission makes her an invaluable asset, uniquely poised to make a lasting impact on the well-being of others.
"I’ve been thinking about changing my career path and wanted to do something to help others. Joining in friendship has helped me to do this. Knowing that I’m making a difference to peoples lives is such a lovely feeling. I’m looking forward to continuing to meet new people and building relationships with them"
Sarah
Care & Support Worker
Sarah's journey began as a commercial transport manager for many years. But when it was time to raise her family and care for her beloved grandmother with dementia, she left that career behind. Those were cherished moments with someone so close to her heart. Since then, Sarah gained valuable experience working at the football association and managing a local retail shop. In those roles, she has learned to interact with people from all walks of life, embracing their unique abilities and truly listening.
During the pandemic, she found great fulfilment volunteering as a community carer - it was incredibly rewarding for her to support those in need. She also assisted at a local day centr whenever she could, which brought her much joy.
In her free time, you'll find Sarah gardening, cooking up a storm, or going on long walks with her loyal furry friend. Simple pleasures, but they mean the world to her.
"I really want to play my part now in making sure everyone can receive the care they need and have the best quality of life possible"
Claire
Care & Support Worker
Claire is a caring professional with a passion for helping others. A proud mum to Ollie and Jack, she's made Witney her home for nearly 30 years, living there with her partner Nathan, son Jack, and stepdaughter Olivia.
Her caregiving journey started in college when she worked at the charming Oakenholt care home - you might recognise it as the filming location for "Waiting for God"! While there, Claire had the chance to meet some famous faces like Graham Crowden and Stephanie Cole. She even cared for the talented lady who designed the BAFTA awards!
After Oakenholt, Claire spent 12 rewarding years as a support worker at Mencap, supporting vulnerable adults in the community. She truly enjoys connecting with people. When Mencap was acquired, Claire took on a new role as a live-in care manager, expanding her caregiving expertise.
In her free time, you'll likely find Claire out exploring the countryside on long walks with her adorable chihuahua, Binky (who sometimes needs a little coaxing to get going!). Claire's furry family also includes her cat Martha and tortoise Humphrey.
One of her biggest joys is traveling around the country in her campervan with Nathan whenever they can. These adventures help Claire recharge and bring fresh energy to her work caring for others.