The Council on Alcohol and other Drugs Appoints Four Distinguished Patrons to Amplify Its Mission
The Council on Alcohol and other Drugs (CAOD) is proud to announce the appointment of four remarkable individuals as Patrons of its family of services— services dedicated to compassionate, long-term support for people affected by addiction, trauma and emotional distress.
These new Patrons will lend their voices, influence and experience to support the work of:
The Living Room — a community-based, non-time-limited recovery centre with an inclusive “all-addictions” approach;
Cynnal — a confidential counselling service for clergy, ministers of religion, Christian workers and their families;
A Room to Live — a ground-breaking, virtual Living Room being developed with Cardiff Metropolitan University, designed to provide accessible recovery support across the world and in every language.
Meet the Patrons
Dame Elan Closs Stephens DBE
Dame Elan brings decades of public service in media, culture and governance. She is currently the Electoral Commissioner for Wales overseeing the Senedd elections in 2026. An affirmation of her leadership and public confidence at the highest level.
Until recently Dame Elan was Pro Chancellor of Aberystwyth University, and she’s been elected as the first woman President of the Learned Society of Wales.
Elan served as the BBC representative for Wales on the BBC Trust and Board from 2010 and became the Acting Chair of the UK BBC in 2023
Baroness Finlay of Llandaff
A renowned clinician and Professor of Palliative Care at Velindre Hospital, Baroness Finlay brings deep expertise in public health and compassionate care. Her strong voice on wellbeing and ethics greatly enriches our mission for holistic recovery support.
Meg Jones MBE
World-champion rugby player Meg Jones MBE has inspired countless people through her sporting achievements and advocacy for health and resilience. Her commitment to community and wellbeing makes her an outstanding ambassador for recovery services.
Lleuwen Steffan
Celebrated Welsh singer, composer and cultural ambassador, Lleuwen brings creativity, empathy and a connection to language and community that reflects CAOD’s inclusive values. Based in Brittany, her international outlook supports our global aspirations for A Room to Live.
Why These Patrons Matter
This exceptional group will help expand public understanding of addiction and recovery, assist in fundraising efforts, and elevate trust in CAOD’s governance and vision. Their diverse expertise and respected public profiles will:
- Extend awareness of recovery as a lifelong, human-centred process.
- Enhance engagement with health, arts and civic communities across Wales and beyond.
- Support inclusive, compassionate advocacy that challenges stigma and prioritises wellbeing;
- Reinforce confidence in high standards of governance, transparency and ethical practice.
“We are honoured to welcome these Patrons whose achievements and integrity reflect the values we hold dear,” said the Revd Denzil John, Chair of CAOD. “Their support will be transformative as we continue to innovate and serve individuals and families on every step of their journey.”
