Candidate - Luke Wilcock

“Coming together is a beginning: keeping together is progress; working together is success” -- Henry Ford

Who I am?

I’m Luke Willcock, and I’m putting myself forward for a position on the board.

Some of you may already know me, though I’m usually tucked away upstairs playing board games, quietly absorbed in cardboard and dice. Many of you, however, are more likely to recognise Poppy, my scruffy little dog who does the rounds on Thursday nights in search of as much affection as she can charm out of you. Thank you to everyone who gives her cuddles and attention, it means the world (to both of us!).

I’m the club’s board game officer; I’ve aimed to be a voice for our board gaming community, raising topics that matter to us and ensuring those perspectives are represented. One project I’m especially proud of is launching a digital database of our board game library (Board Games (List) | Deeside Defenders). It’s a work in progress, growing steadily thanks to new purchases and generous donations.

So, why am I standing for the board? 

It’s not for my corporate savvy or budget-wrangling prowess, the current board already has brilliant people with those skill sets. What I bring is a different perspective. I believe a strong board is shaped by a mix of skills, passions, and lived experiences. That diversity is what makes it effective.

What truly drives me is the opportunity to do more for others. The club is in the best shape it’s ever been, a testament to past and present committee members.  As we now transition to a social enterprise, I see a chance to expand our impact, not just for our members, but for the wider community. Helping others helps us too: it boosts awareness, brings in new members, and strengthens our future position when applying for grants and funding.

My Policies and Initiatives

• Forge partnerships with charities like Game Therapy UK, Tabletop Therapy, Models for Heroes, and Universal Board Games.

• Organise gaming sessions with care homes, studies show board games help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost cognitive function, especially in older adults and people with dementia.

• Deliver inclusive, accessible gaming events for various community groups, making play a tool for connection and well being.

• Build links with niche gaming clubs; Chess, Mahjong, Go, Bridge, Subbuteo, Checkers, supporting existing ones or creating new ones where needed.

• Introduce themed Gauntlet Weekends, each highlighting a different gaming system. These events would give underrepresented games a moment in the spotlight and invite clubs from further afield to join us.

Of course, all of this takes time, coordination, and people power. The first major step is completing our transition to a social enterprise, a complex, but exciting, journey. 

I bring over two decades of experience as a Civil Servant, as a business rates inspector/ surveyor. Along the way, I’ve also served as a union rep, health and safety officer, and a fundraiser for charitable causes. I approach challenges with humility and empathy, and I work well independently or as part of a team.

I’m ready to roll up my sleeves. If elected, I’ll give my time and energy to make these goals a reality. No matter how busy things get, I’ll always make time for what matters.

Thank you for reading and thank you for your support.

Luke