The UK Addiction Treatment Centre’s Management Team

Following over 20 years as a derivatives trader, Daniel set up a successful online marketing company servicing many PLCs in the UK.

Daniel’s own experiences with addiction led him to the behavioural health field in 2009.

In 2010, he trained as a counsellor at Regent’s College and the Minster Centre in London and was certified as an interventionist with The Pennsylvania Certification Board, working with families who wish to get their loved ones into treatment.

In 2010 Daniel also founded one of the largest addiction treatment directories in the UK and in 2014 became a founding shareholder and Managing Director of UKAT.

Daniel’s passion and purpose are to help people start their journey to recovery from addiction.

Paula is excited to contribute to UKAT's continued success and growth. With her strong commitment to excellence, she will ensure that the highest standards are maintained in every service provided, reflecting her belief that quality and governance are key pillars in delivering meaningful support to those in need. She feels privileged to join the UKAT team and is eager to bring her expertise to enhance the organisation's impact.

Her experience spans across many pivotal departments, all responsible for the smooth running and upkeep of a business, including IT, infrastructure, and of course, finance. In her previous role, Sue oversaw the centralised financial function of the company, managing a team of Management Accountants, Credit Control, Accounts Payable and Payroll. Sue was also on the Integration Board for acquisitions and helped manage and integrate acquisitions of other care homes. It was during this time that Sue was also responsible for ensuring full GDPR compliance throughout the acquisitions and was the key liaison for all involved stakeholders, external funders and HMRC. Sue’s experience as a Group Financial Controller is second to none and she has already become an integral part of the UKAT Group.

Matt has led high-impact change programmes, driven cultural transformation, and embedded governance structures supporting excellent patient outcomes and strong staff development throughout his career. He has a reputation as a forward-thinking and collaborative leader, blending strategic vision with a practical ability to deliver measurable results. Whether directing mental health services, overseeing safeguarding arrangements, or improving quality, governance, and performance across organisations, Matt brings clarity, integrity, and unwavering focus to his leadership. Matt entered health services as a Healthcare Assistant, having grown up with his brother, who has a learning disability, and wanting to use this experience to make a positive difference. Matt began his nursing career working on a national specialist self-harm unit, before moving to addiction services; later becoming Borough Lead for Addictions in Croydon, Trust Lead Nurse for Addictions, and then Lead Nurse across Specialist Mental Health Services (all within the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust). He holds a distinction-level Master of Public Administration from London South Bank University and ESADE Business School, alongside qualifications in nursing and drug dependence from King’s College London and the Institute of Psychiatry. Before joining UKAT, Matt held senior roles including Hospital Director at Holybourne Hospital under Active Care Group; Associate Director of Children and Young People’s Integrated Commissioning at One Bromley; Director of Nursing at Priory Roehampton; and Assistant Director of Nursing and Deputy Director of CAMHS at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. At UKAT, Matt plays a pivotal role in operational leadership, service delivery improvement, and strategic planning. His work supports UKAT’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality addiction rehabilitation and mental health services that are grounded in compassion, evidence, and continuous improvement. Passionate about both patient care and staff wellbeing, Matt strives to foster a culture of empowerment, accountability, and excellence across the organisation.

Dr Durrani believes that people who are alcohol or drug dependent have become neuroadapted to continuous or repeated exposure to a psychoactive substance. A manifestation of neuroadaptation is that a withdrawal syndrome may develop when substance use ceases. There are also underlying precipitating, maintaining and perpetuating factors that need to be addressed alongside detoxification for it to be successful. The primary objective of detoxification is completion of the withdrawal process with safety and comfort. This ensures that the person can cease alcohol or drug use without experiencing an uncomfortable and potentially hazardous withdrawal syndrome and enter into a therapeutic rehabilitation program, for relapse prevention.

Dr Durrani’s expertise includes:

• Inpatient detoxification and management of patients with drug(s) and alcohol dependence. This includes Opioids, Psycho-stimulants including Amphetamine, Crack-Cocaine, Benzodiazepine, legal highs and Cannabis.
• Identification and management of medical and psychosocial problems accompanying substance misuse.
• The use of drugs for preventing relapse or reducing risky behavior/harm (e.g. Methadone maintenance, anti-craving drugs Naltrexone etc.)
• Management of special populations such as women, older adults, prisoners, black and ethnic minority groups.
• Management of dual diagnoses in people with substance misuse, serious mental illness and common mental disorders.

For further information please contact UKAT.

As a trained therapist David began working directly with clients. Using previous management experience David progressed meaning that he has been able to utilise his skills whilst still having a direct impact on the clients by providing safe, effective, caring, responsive and well led treatment and care. David joined the UKAT Group in 2016 when UKAT bought the organisation he was working for. Since then he has undertaken a key role in improving and developing services and treatment, and working in the senior management team. “Everyone has the ability to overcome mental health and addiction challenges with the right help and encouragement, UKAT provides a place to do this, with the right medical and therapeutic treatment in a safe and pleasing residential setting”

In his role as Head of Marketing, Sumit leads the strategic and tactical direction of UKAT’s growth, driving awareness about recovery on multiple advertising platforms. From overseeing engaging social media campaigns and managing search engine advertising to refining SEO and content marketing initiatives, he ensures that UKAT’s message reaches the people who need it most. Under his guidance, the marketing team collaborates with medical experts and people who have personally battled addiction, creating content that is both factually sound, authoritative, trustworthy and empathetically resonant—illustrating the emotional toll on loved ones while offering genuine hope. A passionate advocate for innovation, Sumit aims to distinguish UKAT as a reliable beacon for recovery, helping to lessen the stigma surrounding addiction and empowering more individuals to reclaim their lives. His commitment to showcasing real-life experiences paired with expert insight makes him an all-round marketing leader dedicated to furthering UKAT’s mission and ensuring families find the support they deserve.

She is pivotal in lobbying Government and Council leaders to allocate more financial investment into statutory treatment and support services in a bid to ensure that drug and alcohol help is accessible for all. She is also responsible for UKAT’s Education and Corporate affiliate programmes launched in 2020. Having worked in Marketing for over 15 years, Claire has come from a background in professional business services and has a fantastic understanding and grasp of how important strong communication strategies- both internally and externally- are for an organisation in leveraging the brand to its highest potential. Any and all media enquiries should be sent to media@ukat.co.uk

Zaheen’s expertise lies in substance misuse services, particularly within offender rehabilitation and private care settings. He has a strong background working within the Ministry of Justice and Her Majesty’s Prison Service, focusing on addiction and recovery in high-pressure environments. As an experienced integrative counsellor, Zaheen has supported countless individuals on their path to healing and growth, both one-to-one and in group therapy formats. Holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, Zaheen combines academic knowledge with practical leadership and a hands-on approach. He has successfully managed large-scale projects, utilising digital systems to ensure service efficiency, innovation, and timely delivery. With excellent communication and interpersonal skills, he thrives in multi-agency settings, promoting collaboration and continuous service improvement. Zaheen is passionate about empowering individuals and teams, and his work continues to contribute to UKAT’s mission of delivering high-quality, effective addiction treatment across the UK.

A relentless pursuit of knowledge and a passion for profoundly impacting the lives of those in need paved the way for Sebastian's deep exploration into the complexities of physical complex needs in healthcare. In 2023, he embarked on an inspiring journey into the heart of mental health, further solidifying his reputation as a forward-thinker in the healthcare industry. Sebastian's dedication to dementia care is remarkable, having championed this cause for over a decade. His exceptional skills and expertise have seen him collaborate with Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) and eldercare consultants, culminating in creating the first-ever delirium pilot programme that seamlessly transitions patients from the hospital to their homes. His unwavering love for making a difference is what truly sets Sebastian Vidler apart. He doesn't merely view healthcare as a profession but as a calling to bring comfort, dignity, and solace to those in need. Sebastian's story is one of commitment, innovation, and heartfelt service to humanity, making him a valuable asset to the UKAT team.

She believes people are the most valuable asset in any organisation, especially in the healthcare and addiction recovery sector, where compassion, professionalism and emotional resilience are critical. Her HR philosophy is rooted in the belief that a supportive and positive work environment is beneficial and essential to helping individuals and teams perform at their best. At UKAT, Kelly is focused on building a culture where employees feel recognised, supported, and empowered. She is committed to promoting staff wellbeing, enhancing employee engagement, and creating development opportunities that allow people to grow personally and professionally. Her goal is to cultivate a workplace where everyone feels they belong, their contributions matter, and they are equipped to make a meaningful impact.

Her professional journey has been marked by 7 years of dedicated service in Senior Compliance Officer roles, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of compliance and operational efficiency. Prior to her role at UKAT, Sophie gained valuable experience in the Education Recruitment sector. This diverse background equips her with a wealth of skills, encompassing areas such as Marketing, HR, Compliance, Administration, and Account Management. Sophie's multidisciplinary expertise allows her to approach her responsibilities with a holistic perspective, ensuring that every facet of the organisation runs smoothly. Sophie's unwavering dedication is evident in her role, where she identifies areas of the business that require her data-driven insights to improve processes and productivity within UKAT. Sophie's meticulous attention to detail and strong work ethic is also demonstrated by her external information research, which UKAT uses to improve corporate culture, staffing standards, client needs, and the recruitment process. Sophie plays a pivotal role in contributing to ongoing business drivers and initiatives, with her commitment to excellence making her an integral part of the UKAT team, contributing to the company's continued success and growth.

After progressing the hospital's CQC rating from “Requires Improvement” to “Good”, he moved into Quality Improvement overseeing quality initiatives for over 40+ hospitals, care homes and outpatient clinics. He is dedicated to ensuring that clients feel safe and comfortable during treatment.

He is someone who thrives under pressure and able to adapt to an ever-changing landscape. Mark brings with him property knowledge and an eye for detail. A real team player, someone that is a target orientated individual who can build long term business relationships at all levels. Mark always looks to deliver a quality service and is always focused on customer satisfaction being the forefront of the business

Faith completed an Integrative Counselling Degree First Class in 2020 (BSc Hons). Faith is a positive advocate for recovery appearing in TV/Radio segments for The one Show and Granada Reports highlighting and promoting the incredible work that the staff do across UKAT working in the addiction/recovery field. Faith was promoted in July 2021 to Senior Counsellor managing the therapy team. In November 2021 Faith transitioned into the role of CQC Registered Manager and continued to be passionate about providing safe, effective care for all clients who enter the centre. Faith was promoted to Operations Manager in February 2024 and now works closely with four centres within the UKAT group. Sharing her experience, knowledge and skills with other managers on improving processes and procedures within current guidance.

He has held multiple posts and has developed safe systems of work and clinical governance processes to ensure that both Staff and Clients are kept safe, He has experience of working within regional operational management overseeing multiple sites and contracts including implementations. “I feel passionate about giving people the opportunity to grow and develop within their role and I am skilled in tapping into where people’s passions lie and providing them with the training and opportunities to develop”. Nick has a vast knowledge and understanding of safeguarding processes and recognises the complexities and challenges faced by clients, their families, and society as a whole. Using evidenced based and effective care to maximise the potential of Clients and keep them safe.

Johnny’s a university graduate from the Organisation and Management course at the Institut National of Commerce, Algiers University and has a First Class Honours Degree in Mathematics (BSC in Mathematics from the London Metropolitan University) which he achieved whilst in recovery. His NVQ 3 and his NVQ 5 (QCF Management in Adult Social Care) are from City and Guilds.

His work experience includes years in the Catering and Hospitality field, leadership positions in the Landscaping and Gardening field, as well as volunteer positions in Homeless Action in Barnet. His journey changed because Johnny suffered from addiction. He’s been sober for over 12 years and is now working to help those who are just starting their journey discover the right path to long-term recovery.

Kerry possesses a deep well of compassion and empathy, which she leverages to fuel her unwavering drive to assist clients who are embarking on their journey of recovery. Her genuine care for others, coupled with her ability to truly understand and share their feelings, allows her to connect with clients on a profound level. This connection, combined with her relentless determination to support their healing, makes her an invaluable asset to those seeking to overcome addiction and find lasting recovery.

Her passion for the 12-step programme, dedication to relapse prevention, and solution-focused approach inspire and guide clients on their journey to recovery. These qualities, combined with her professional expertise, make her an invaluable leader in her role as Centre Manager at Sanctuary Lodge.

Karen excels in creating therapeutic environments, developing recovery programmes, and managing complex cases, including those involving co-occurring disorders, alcohol use disorder, and substance use disorder. She also has experience working with clients who have experienced extreme trauma. As someone in recovery herself, Karen brings invaluable lived experience to her work. She also serves as a Lived Experience Advisory Partner for Addiction Professionals. A critical thinker and natural problem-solver, Karen is passionate about staff development and fostering a supportive work environment. Her leadership builds trust, motivation and growth within her team, and she continually strives to innovate in the addiction recovery field.

Michelle brings a strong academic foundation to her work and holds formal training in behavioural science, addiction studies, and therapeutic practice from Leeds University. Additionally, she achieved a Post Graduate Degree at the University of Huddersfield in 2014, and her background as a Psychosocial Practice Educator enhances her ability to deliver effective education, training, and tailored support to diverse groups. Passionate about driving meaningful change, Michelle is committed to improving the quality of care and accessibility of services for individuals experiencing addiction and for families and communities affected by it. She strives to create impactful support services that foster resilience and promote safer, healthier lives and communities for all.

Sarah has progressed from a support worker to the role of deputy manager over the course of her years with the company, steadily growing her knowledge, professionalism and understanding along the way. Sarah is very passionate in supporting and empowering individuals to make positive change on their journey of recovery.

Rosie began her professional training with a Diploma in Counselling from Birkbeck University, followed by a Master’s degree in Addiction Counselling and Psychology from London South Bank University. Having been in recovery herself for over 25 years, Rosie is a passionate advocate of total abstinence through the 12-step approach. Her personal journey has given her a profound understanding of how addiction affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. Her own family witnessed her overcome addiction at a time when all hope seemed lost, and they continue to be inspired by the transformation of her recovery. Rosie firmly believes that with the right support and guidance, anyone struggling with addiction can turn their life around and go on to live a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. She is deeply committed to helping addicts and alcoholics take responsibility for their recovery and achieve lasting change.